Food for thought: get inspiration for your plus size wedding dress with La Bella Bridal, which are showcasing plus size clothing at London Fashion Week 

Choosing outfits for the big day from the wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, to the mother of the brides outfit can be a very stressful time as everyone’s tastes and size needs to be taken into consideration. La Bella Bridal is the ideal bridal outfitters to meet everyone’s needs with 25 years experience and the best plus size wedding dress selection. 

The perfect plus size wedding dress at La Bella Bridal 

What is so inclusive about La Bella Bridal is that you can not only get the most amazing plus size wedding dress but all the outfits are available in sizes 0 to 32 so whatever size the wedding party, all the women can shop together. The list of designer style from La Bella Bridal is fantastic including well known designers such as Veromia, Demetrios, and Linea Raffaelli. 
The plus size wedding dress designers 

Veromia are well established designers for La Bella Bridal producing the most eye catching and inspiring plus size wedding dresses as well as dressing the bridesmaids and mother of the bride. A plus size wedding dress from Veromia is guaranteed to put a smile on the brides face as she glides down the aisle. The in house designers from Veromia create dream like wedding dresses fit for a princess. Just like this fairy tale dress in a rose pink with bodice and long trailing skirt.The Hot Sale Ball Gown Wedding dresses. What dress you wear? The floral detailing is exquisite with dainty flowers over the bodice and training down the back of the dress. 

Demetrios is a new designer in the La Bella Briadal stable offering the perfect plus size wedding dress up to a size 28 in satin, silk and taffeta and special lace. Demetrios James Elias is a Greek American designer whose gowns have featured in 100’s of bridal magazines. This gown is a lovely example of his designs which in this dress uses different fabrics to create a stunning look. 

For brides to be looking for a younger and trendier style of plus size wedding dress then the designer Linea Raffaelli is perfect. The dresses from this up and coming Belgium designer are unique and individual and recognize the fact that the bride needs to be comfortable as well as gorgeous on her special day. This stunning dress is a perfect example of his creativity with a halter neck and sewn pleats which create an amazing shape finished with a striking sash at the waist. 

La Bella Bridal is an amazing site to browse through for inspiration for the big day to come. The images of the dresses are clear with several different views of each. The selection available from the many well known designers is boundless. What is more, the mother of the bride outfits are as equally stunning and, as many of them are by the same designers, will compliment the plus size wedding dress perfectly. 
What Fibre2fashion say 

La Bella Bridal is highly regarded in the bridal industry and have always felt it important to showcase the real woman. They also consider the role of the mother of the bride to be important and this is reflected in their collections.

It was my own fault -- I should have disposed of that stuff years ago. 

I have a habit of periodically sorting through my husband's piles of miscellaneous clothing when it reaches overflowing proportions. I bag up the most unused and hide it somewhere. If he hasn't missed it in two years, I get rid of it. I think that's fair; he never voluntarily discards anything. 

But I overlooked a zippered plastic bag full of T-shirts and other tops, dozens of them, stashed under a bed in a seldom-used bedroom. It stayed there for maybe six years, which may tell you something about my housekeeping skills, but let's not go there. 

He found it. There it was, dragged out and unzipped, right next to a heap of six shirts. I had been amassing clothing for donation purposes, so I had a sudden mad notion he had become a contributor. He had -- those six shirts were up for grabs. 

"What about the rest of it?" I demanded. "You never even knew that bag was there, and you've never missed anything in it. You don't need any more T-shirts, especially old forgotten ones." "Those aren't all T-shirts," he countered. "There are some sweaters in there." 

"But you never wear sweaters." 

"Well -- I'm getting old and I might want one.Contact Ladies formal office dresses for women companies directly to purchase from them." That logic stunned me momentarily. 

Then he went on the attack: "You have a lot of stuff to go through before I worry about one bag under a bed." 

"But I know I'm going to deal with my stuff at some point," I argued, "Whereas you are iffy at best." 

OK, so maybe I do have some clothing-retention issues. Although I pretty much got over that "keep it because it might fit again someday" mentality a long time ago. 

I figure if I ever get thin again, I'll deserve a new wardrobe. Conversely,How can I make sure that a wedding dress 100%silk? should I, heaven forbid, get too enormous for my clothes, I'll be so depressed that I'll need a new wardrobe just to preserve whatever mental health I have left. 

So I don't hesitate to give away clothing when indicated. Its the least I can do. 

In the closet in that same seldom-used bedroom, however,Find the perfect high neck wedding dresses gowns photos and be inspired for your wedding. I must confess to preserving a few frivolities. They hang next to my husband's 1965 Army fatigues. 

There are some really dressy outfits I bought over the years in case we ever went on a really elegant cruise. We just did that in November. I took few of those clothes, but for the most part we avoided formal dress nights by mutual agreement; we're more beer and pretzels than caviar and champagne. 

Then there are the prom dresses; I made one for each of my daughters when they were in high school. Not particularly skilled at that type of sewing, I was very proud of those lovely, custom-made gowns. And I still am. So they linger in that closet, waiting. I have granddaughters. 

There is also one daughter's maid of honor dress and two boxes containing wedding dresses, mine and my mother's. I forced myself to give away my mother of the bride/groom ensembles some time ago, although that blue silk suit with the lace accents was hard to part with. 

Contrast these paltry wardrobe mementos with my husband's hundreds of ancient shirts and the collection of business suits. He has seven, left over from long-ago pre-retirement days, and only one fits.The Hot Sale Ball Gown Wedding dresses. What dress you wear? He wears it to weddings and funerals -- and once, under some protest, on the recent cruise. 

Also nestled on a rusty hanger among his treasured belongings is a grungy black-and-white buffalo plaid wool shirt he bought in Harrisburg in 1961. I was with him at the time, and had I known it would still be in our closet ... 

He calls it "The Rag" with proud fondness and great justification. In all fairness, it doesn't get worn a lot these days.We just have to gaze at catalogs filled with designer beaded evening gowns! Because he owns several other plaid wool shirts, given over the years by family members increasingly embarrassed by "The Rag" whenever it appeared in public. 

Then there are shoes. I had a lot of them that seemed to fit perfectly when acquired yet became unbearably uncomfortable by the time I wanted to wear them. I gave them all away. 

My husband still clings to his Army combat boots. You never know when a war might arise in Connecticut and he would need them. 

"How did you ever even find that bag of shirts under the bed," I asked him. 

He claimed he was searching for a pair of my shoes I couldn't find. 

Darn. It really was all my own fault. 

"You're definitely going to be in a column, " I told him.

Planning your big day and have no idea where to start? 

We are all guilty of spending hours dreaming away our perfect wedding, from hosting our own wedding between toys when young - to searching the internet for the ideal wedding dress, without even having a man. 

Some of us are even guilty of popping into a bridal shop to try on the dream dress, sipping champagne and pretending to be thrilled about the ‘big day’ ahead. 

The Hub is offering couples the chance to explore their unique venue with their annual Wedding open weekend. 

The Open Weekend is an annual showcase for the venue in its wedding style. 

Head of Marketing and Business Development at The Hub, Kathryn Fernie, said: “We usually have quite a number of couples coming to see the venue whether they are newly engaged or have been planning their wedding for a while. 

“We set up the venue as it would be laid out for a wedding.Find low cut V-neckline dress for all your formal events. 

“We show guests the variety of themes we offer as part of the deal.” 

The space can seat up to 300 guests for a wedding ceremony and is a licensed space for civil ceremonies. 

If you would prefer to host your evening reception only at the venue, the Main Hall suits up to 250 evening guests with bar and stage facilities available.

Couples can create their own package and tailor every aspect to their own needs and wants to make the wedding the day they have always dreamed of a reality. 

So what makes The Hub a unique venue for Weddings? 

Kathryn said: “I think it is mainly because of our location. We are in the middle of Edinburgh’s City Centre right next to the Castle. 

“It’s a spectacular area of town and our building makes part of the Edinburgh landscape.” 

If you are planning your wedding in the near future, Kathryn ensured there are dates available within the next year so there is no need to worry about the time. 

The day allows couples to chat to the venue’s Wedding Co-ordinators ensuring they create your perfect day. 

Kathryn said: “On the day you will be greeted with canapés and wine and can explore the venue set up as it would be for a wedding. 

“You can see the packages we offer and chat your ideal day through with our wedding co-ordinators who will be on-hand throughout the day to offer advice and tips to couples.Online shopping for custom made designer Hot Sale Favorable Wedding Dresses. 

“Each wedding is made bespoke for the couple so you can create your perfect wedding.Sultry off shoulder dress with thick stretch cotton in plain black. 

“The day will also provide ideas if you have already booked your wedding with a variety of themes on display.” 

Any couple who book their wedding at the open weekend will receive complimentary meals for the top table on their big day.We provide rental service on a variety of Hot Sale Fit&Flare Wedding Dresses, qua and tuxedos, etc. 

All meals provided by the venue are made using local produce from around Scotland with traditional dishes of haggis,Source Hot Sale A-line Wedding Dresses Products at Plus Size Dress & Skirts,. salmon and lamb available. 

The venue also offer a children’s menu for weddings including burgers, pasta and ice cream ensuring your little guests don’t go hungry. 

There is also the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win afternoon tea for four at the Café Hub. 

The Open Weekend takes place on Saturday, January 19 and Sunday, January 20 from 11am to 4pm.

SHOPFRONTS of three bridal stores were instantly destroyed in an explosion of glass by an out-of-control car early yesterday. 

Dramatic CCTV footage captured the moment about 4am when the wayward vehicle slammed into the stores in Sydney Rd, Brunswick. 

The vehicle mounted the footpath and smashed into a bridal boutique, a wedding cake store, and a hairdressing salon about 4am. 

Police say a Coburg man, 24, at the wheel returned a blood alcohol reading of .154. He is expected to be charged on summons with careless driving, speeding and drink-driving. 

He and his passenger escaped with minor injuries. 

Surveillance footage taken from inside Sara Jade Hairdressing salon shows the instant the car swiped the shop front, sending a bin catapulting through the glass.Source Hot Sale A-line Wedding Dresses Products at Plus Size Dress & Skirts,. 

Soon after, a man in a striped shirt walks by to survey the damage before emergency crews arrive. 

Sara Jade, owner of Sara Jade Hairdressing, said the impact had destroyed $20,000 worth of stock in the blink of an eye. 

"I've got my reps coming down before Friday so I can tend to my brides before they ram their cars through my front window," she joked. 

She said she thought she was dreaming when she received a 4.30am phone call about the damage. "I said,Online shopping for custom made designer Hot Sale Favorable Wedding Dresses. 'Are you joking?"' 

Rebekah Hardwick,We provide rental service on a variety of Hot Sale Fit&Flare Wedding Dresses, qua and tuxedos, etc. of Mariana Hardwick,Find low cut V-neckline dress for all your formal events. said she couldn't believe the destruction that had been wrought by the out-of-control vehicle. 

"It looks like a train has ploughed through our stores," she said.The Hot Sale Ball Gown Wedding dresses. What dress you wear? 

"How could a Holden Commodore do all of that damage?" 

She said the vehicle had come to a rest outside her bridal store, but not before smashing through her shop front and denting iron gates at the entrance. 

Astonishingly, a display dress was left unscathed. 

She said the clean-up would be extensive. 

"It affects trade, and even with insurance there's lots of hidden costs," Ms Hardwick said. 

But she said it was fortunate there weren't more people on the street at the time of the incident. 

"We were really lucky," she said. 

The impact of the crash left furniture and display cakes strewn across the specialty cake store Jessicakes' shop front.

The baby is getting married.Find the perfect formal dresses evening for any special occasion. 

The husband has been copying photographs, putting together a video for the reception. He made a wonderful pairing of two photographs. In the picture on the left, she is 10-years-old wearing my mother’s old wedding gown playing dress-up and I am adjusting her veil. In the picture on the right, she is standing in her real wedding gown and I am kneeling on the floor pinning where fasteners will go for the bustle. 

A quarter inch of space is all that separates 16 years. The time went exactly that fast. 

She’s about to take the plunge. Every marriage has an element of jumping off a cliff. You know the other person as well as you can, that he loathes tomatoes and you like them. You do the pre-marital counseling, read the communication books, then close your eyes and leap. The act of marriage takes grit and courage. 

Marrying someone is not the same as living with someone. Living together is test driving the car. Marriage is having the guts to buy the car knowing it is still yours even after the 5-year/ 50,Hand Embroidery lace dress and other apparel, accessories and trends.000 mile warranty has expired. 

Marriage is a public commitment, a legal contract and covenant of faith,We just have to gaze at catalogs filled with designer beaded evening gowns! in which a bride and groom vow before God and witnesses to uphold a life-long exclusive faithfulness.How can I make sure that a wedding dress 100%silk? 

It is mildly nerve-wracking knowing that the model of marriage your offspring knows best is your very own. 

Did she see that marriage is the most important relationship she will ever nurture? 

Did she see that the cornerstone of marriage is courtesy? Tone of voice, dear. Ask, don’t tell. Suggest, don’t demand.Contact Ladies formal office dresses for women companies directly to purchase from them. The world outside is rough, so be tender. 

I hope she heard me say at least once that women do not have to be first responders. Often it’s better not to say the first thing that comes into your mind. Or even the second. 

I hope she knows I married her father because he’s a good man. She’s marrying a good man, too. Respect him by speaking well of him, both to him and to others. 

I hope she saw the power of the mundane — that the shared laughs, small surprises, kitchen disasters and everyday routine and monotony are what cement you as a couple. Even the crises and catastrophes become part of the memories that build your history. 

Our daughter and her fiancé will be glowing on their wedding day. I pray they enjoy every moment of the day. I also pray that they will weather all the seasons of marriage, and that one day in the distant future they find themselves with a few extra pounds, salt and pepper hair, a thousand inside jokes and still enjoying one another. 

Robert Browning said it well: “Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be — the last of life for which the first was made.”

The Khimji Ramdas Group has honoured 13 Sanad achievers in its 2013 calendar art. These include business men and women who have achieved milestones in their respective spheres of enterprise. 

The honorary gesture from KR comes as part of the conglomerate’s continuous support towards the government initiated Sanad programme that identifies and encourages entrepreneurship and business enterprise among the nation’s youth. Their felicitation in KR’s 2013 calendar represents the celebration of entrepreneurship and its passion for developing the country’s talented youth. 

Among the thirteen young achievers are — Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed al Abri from an advertising agency — Al Seeb; Iman bint Ali bin Redha al Ajmi whose business is the supply and fixing of wallpapers; Maryam bint Masoud bin Khamis al Alwai who runs a playschool in Sur; Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Balushi,Find the perfect formal dresses evening for any special occasion. who is in building materials distribution business in Quriyat; Asia bint Salim bin Said al Hadrami who has her beauty in Sumail; Muna bint Salmeen bin Tnaf al Hinai who has her own antiques and gifting outlet in Ibri; Juma bin Awad bin Salem El Jadidi who runs an appliances and kitchens store in Ibri; Youssef Ben Ali al Anqodi who manages an IT and networking company in Nizwa; Hamoud bin Said bin Mansour al Hinai who runs a shopping centre in Ibri; Subha bint Mubarak bin Salim al Balushi who rents wedding dresses in Ibri; Ahmed bin Yousef bin Amer al Siyabi who does sale and repair of tyres in Nizwa; Said bin Ahmed bin Mohammed al Mahri who owns a vehicle towing business in Salalah; and Amira bint Mohammed bin Ibrahim al-Shanfari who runs a fitness and health centre for women and children in Salalah. 

Says Iman al Ajmi, one of the 13 achievers of KR 2013 calendar said, “I very much appreciate and laud the Khimji Ramdas Group efforts to bring out the potential of budding entrepreneurs in the Omani society and for believing in their hopes and dreams for a richer and vibrant Oman of tomorrow. It is my privilege to be chosen for the KR 2013 calendar which reflects the commitment and support of a large corporate which believes in its youth.Save 62% on Asymmetric neckline dress Bridesmaid 2013 !” 

Tonight we get down to the nitty-gritty as we have our first one-on-one dates for The Bachelor Sean Lowe. Then it is a group date for Sean and 13 of the women as they pose for a Harlequin book cover. The winning girl will win a three-book deal for covers in the future with Harlequin, so that is some big time work for these girls that seem to have a lot of time on their hands to go on The Bachelor 2013. Come back tonight for my The Bachelor 2013 Recap and we can find out who got eliminated on The Bachelor Season 17! 

Sean Lowe shirtless? Who would have thought that is how it started again tonight! Chris Harrison comes out and brings the date cards with him for the ladies. The first one-on-one goes to Sarah. Sean arrives in a helicopter to pick up Sarah, which has all the girls so jealous. If you all didn’t know, Sarah only has one arm! She lets us all know quite a bit and so does ABC! 

They fly to the top of a 300-foot building in L.A. for a champagne toast,The hunt for a strapless wedding dress. which is at the bottom of the building! Free-fall or you don’t get the toast Sarah! She’ll get the toast, as they jump together. Would you have jumped on The Bachelor 2013? I am freaking out just watching them look over the edge of the building! 

More time with Sean for Sarah, as they meet up again at night and enjoy some wine and talking and ABC putting the camera on her arm that is gone….ugh! 

The other girls get the next date card, which is a group date for Kristy, Amanda, Brooke, Lesley M., Danielle F.,The bari jay bridesmaid dresses collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. Catherine, Robyn, Katie, Selma, Diana, Taryn and Tierra. Tierra is pissed because she doesn’t want to meet friends, but wants to meet Sean.I have always thought long sleeves wedding dress give a blushing bride a demure air of elegance. Back to Sarah and Sean and he enjoyed their first date and loved it, so he gives her a rose and they share a kiss! Does it feel awkward for anyone else?

The Golden Globes were last night and I pondered over the red carpet dresses forever before deciding on the best and of course worst (coming soon). Instead of making your wade through tons of images of nice dresses I decided to slam you with my top three looks on the Golden Globes red carpet followed by the honorable mentions (which there were many). 

My Number Three best dressed celeb was the sun kissed Jessica Alba. Being not only one of the best dressed but also the best dressed in a gown in a color other than black. Thanks Jessica for looking stunning from the ombre perfectly curled hair and shimmering Harry Winston diamond necklace to the full train of the Oscar de la Renta gown in peach silk. 

Marge graduated from Richford High School in 1971. She married her beloved husband and best friend, Patrick W. Longe Sr., on Oct. 13, 1973. They made their home in West Berkshire, where they just celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary. What Marge was most proud of was her family. She remarked many times on how fortunate she was to have such a wonderful husband, children, son-in-law, daughters-in-law and seven grandchildren.New fashion styles of 2013 wedding dress are on hot sale. 

Besides her husband Patrick Sr., she leaves her children, Patrick Longe Jr. and his wife Sheila, their children Patience, Shantel, Cora and Alexsis of Franklin, Angel Hamilton and her husband Brian, their children Colby and Devon of Richford, Scott Longe, his girlfriend Darlene King and his daughter Myah of Jeffersonville; her siblings, Pierre Desautels and his wife Ginger of Green Castle, Pa.Save 62% on Asymmetric neckline dress Bridesmaid 2013 !, Daniel Desautels and his wife Deborah of Richford, Gilbert Desautels and his wife Sally of Richford, Sylvie Desautels and her husband Chris Wood of Tunbridge, Raymond Desautels and his companion Marlene Chates of Highgate, and Renee Patterson and her husband Larry of Montgomery. 

Marge also leaves her second family, Billy and Beatrice Longe of Berkshire, Ronald and Caroline Longe of Bridport, Diane Chaffee of Franklin, Steven and Janet Longe of West Berkshire and Timmy and Cindy Longe of Enosburg Falls. Marge also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends. Besides her parents, she was predeceased her brother Patrick Desautels and a brother in-law,What exactly is a Pick-up gown? David Chaffee. 

Her family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone for their acts of kindness throughout Marge’s illness. Words cannot say enough to express our appreciation for the cards, food,The hunt for a strapless wedding dress. flowers, visits and kindness that we have been given. A special thanks to Dr.Browse hundreds of beautiful Off-Shoulder Wedding Dresses and find the perfect fit for you! Dennis Sanders and Dr. Terry Nielson and their staff, as well as the caring people from the Vermont Cancer Center at Fletcher Allen Health Care. They would also like to thank Franklin County Home Health hospice nurses for their kindness and wonderful care, which enabled Marge to live out her final months with grace and dignity. 

Calling hours will be on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. 

Funeral services will be on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church, 62 Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Roger Charbonneau celebrating the Mass of Christian burial. Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.

First,Embrace modern glamour in this evening gown from Rina di Montella 1520. thanks for all your lovely messages on my last post. It's quite nerve-wracking putting such a special day out there for public consumption so I'm glad you enjoyed your little sneak peek into our day. (For more, just keep an eye out here and here, or here.) 

Second, I'm still getting a few wedding woes, which is awesome! I love the ability to offer solutions or ideas to problems and issues - and I think the combined smarts of you readers means we get stuff sorted! 
Here's today's woe, from M: Carrie 

Hi Greer, Not really a wedding woe, but something you might want to write about/ask the masses. 

We are planning a registry wedding after getting engaged over the holidays. Our baby is due soon so we don't really have time to plan a big party, but are planning a wedding+1 party for 2014. 

I wondered if you had any ideas for making a registry wedding more special. The formal ceremony only takes a few minutes, and then the Registrar will apparently leave us to it - we're the last ceremony for the day. 

We can have around 30 people in the room and they won't kick us out for at least half an hour. 

It will be nice to keep things simple, especially with the party planned for later.Go for a modern and romantic look in this Rina di Montella 1519 evening gown. What do you think we should add to the ceremony? 

First - double congrats! A wedding and a baby, oooeeee you're busy! 

Loving the idea of the registry wedding and how cool that you get to have that time in that space and not feel "hurried out".If you still do not have an awesome 2013 evening dress. 

People I know who have had simple ceremonies like this often decide to go a local restaurant or continue the celebrations at home afterwards. I think this would be a great option for you! I also think it is totally reasonable (in order to keep costs down) to either subsidise or ask your guests to pay for their own dinners. 

I know we've debated this before (um, 110 comments later, what the!), but I think in your situation (gawd, I hate saying that.Atria cocktail dresses and sequin semi formal dress with an Off the Shoulder cocktail dresses design. It's not like you've got some weird disease or whatever, promise!) your guests should understand that you want a "proper" party later, but for now just their presence is required at this smaller, more intimate gathering. 

Another way you could make it feel "special" is to continue some "traditions" - such as spending the night before your wedding apart. Trust me, this is a really good way to build anticipation and given that the ceremony is all wham-bam-thankyouma'am when you get to it (blink and you WILL miss it!), it's kind of nice to drag it out a bit, and really surprise your partner. 

Speaking of which, I highly recommend you do whatever you need to do in order to make yourself feel wonderful on the day! Go get your hair done, or a massage or whatever, and really spoil yourself! 

Get your hands on a dress or whatever that makes you FEEL a million bucks, and really rock it. 

It'd be cool if you could document the day as much as possible too. Just because it's not the fancy pants party that you'll have later on, doesn't mean you can't have some nice details on the day included (like something old/new/borrowed/blue etc) and have a photographer or videographer (or both!) there to follow you through the process. It'd be kind of neat for your unborn child to see the wee bump crusiing around and being part of the day too! And you can show it at the "big party" at a later date! Spesh. 

Whatever you do, don't play down your wedding day. Yes, it might be small and different to how you thought or wanted it to be, but it is still your wedding day and you will remember it forever - SO HAVE SOME FUN! Hey,Find low cut V-neckline dress for all your formal events. if it's good enough for Carrie Bradshaw and Big...

After a year away, "Downton Abbey" has returned to American television.Find 2013 affordable one shoulder wedding dresses for your wedding, look at these dresses. The highly anticipated season three of the British period drama premiered on PBS on January 6 at 8 p.m. 

The new season of "Downton" begins in the spring of 1920, about a week before the wedding of Matthew Crawley and Lady Mary Crawley. A very pregnant Lady Sybil returns from Ireland for the occasion with her husband and former Downton chauffeur, Tom Branson. Tension and awkwardness ensue as most of the family is still acclimating to their former chauffeur becoming a member of the family. Just as Lord Grantham is beginning to cope with this uncomfortable situation, it is revealed that he has lost a great deal of money in a bad investment and he may just have to sell Downton Abbey. 

Season three deals directly with the changing role of the British aristocracy in a post-World War I era. 

No character illustrates these changing times more clearly than Martha Levinson,Browse hundreds of beautiful Off-Shoulder Wedding Dresses and find the perfect fit for you! Lady Grantham's wealthy American mother. 

A delightful Shirley MacLaine joins the cast as Levinson who is less than pleased that her daughter's fortune has been spent on Downton's upkeep.We offer a wide array of cheap lace wedding veils, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. Levinson believes that the post-war world is a vastly different one in which there is no place for such grand houses. 

MacLaine's character is a great foil to Maggie Smith's Dowager Countess and the scenes between the two ladies are particularly fun to watch. 

As always, there is just as much drama with the Downton staff. Carson is trying to hire a new footman and Anna is working tirelessly to find a shred of proof that her husband and former Downton valet,The bari jay bridesmaid dresses collection offers a truly unique line of dresses.White Strapless chapel train gown with Full A-line Skirt. Mr. Bates, was wrongly convicted of his ex-wife's murder. 

The show's plot has spanned ten years since the first episode and the evolution of fashion and technology are consequently less subtle in this season. In the brave new world of the 1920's, women wear drop-waist dresses, have their picture taken by a photographer, write newspaper columns and even use the newly invented electric toaster. 

This season, which has already aired in the United Kingdom, promises to be just as melodramatic, surprising and witty as the past two but is perhaps the most achingly sad. There are multiple weddings, births and deaths in store, each with more consequence than the last. 

Season four has already been announced so, keep in mind, even when this season gets rocky, that Downton must prevail.

It's not easy being a celebrity bride.From traditional mori lee bridesmaid dresses with hand sewn beads to festive quinceanera gowns. Not only do they have to consider the usual stuff like wedding dresses (usually freebies), venues (often in exotic destinations), guest lists (brimming with celebrities) and caterers (a hatted chef, of course), in the parallel universe of famedom, they must also sweat bucketloads over a mega-buck magazine deal. 

Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins will finally walk down the aisle in June with her model/tradie fiance Jake Wall, after one of the longest celebrity engagements in recent history. 

Hawkins's wedding is being discussed in great detail in the offices of Australia's leading women's magazines as editors wheel in the bean counters to calculate how much they are prepared to spend. Within camp Hawkins, her agent Sean Anderson has the task of cutting the deal, with insiders saying the asking price will be a staggering NZ$377,000. 

"He is dreaming if he thinks we will pay that ... I reckon they'll be lucky to get half," says one battle-weary editor, who asked to remain anonymous so as to protect any potential deal she may strike. 

If Hawkins, who appears on the cover of Harper's Bazaar on Monday, manages to ink a deal for $377,000, it will be on par with the big celebrity weddings of yore, including the biggest of them all - the fairytale nuptials of Bec and Lleyton Hewitt. 

But even Hawkins could soon be eclipsed in the not too distant future, with whispers that Shane Warne and Elizabeth Hurley (a union dubbed Shurley) are asking for NZ$1.2 million in return for Australian media access to their wedding. 

Rumour has it Shurley are also after another NZ$1.2 million from Britain's Hello! magazine,New fashion styles of 2013 wedding dress are on hot sale. which last year splashed the couple with their blended family across its pages in the midst of a heavily styled holiday in Sri Lanka. Hurley is no stranger to cutting such deals. She and her ex-husband, Indian-born Arun Nayar, became embroiled in an unseemly row with Nayar's father, Vinod, who claimed he and his family were made to feel like social outcasts for the sake of Hello!. 

"I think this elaborate Indian event was Elizabeth's theatrical dream. It certainly was not a serious attempt to honour our customs," Vinod said at the time. Good luck Warnie! 

If you are entranced by a gown you've seen at a top bridal boutique or in a magazine, you should plan to attend the Custom Bride & Dressmaker Mixer, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, at Haberman Fabrics. Meet professional designers and dressmakers who will have portfolios, pictures and samples of their work. Having a beautifully constructed, perfectly fitted custom wedding gown is actually quite affordable, said Toby Haberman.White Strapless chapel train gown with Full A-line Skirt. 

“There may be a $10,000 gown that you love but you really didn't want it with long sleeves.The bari jay bridesmaid dresses collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. Or maybe the manufacturer has a shade of white and a shade of ivory,Find 2013 affordable one shoulder wedding dresses for your wedding, look at these dresses. and you don't want white, but the ivory is too yellow for your complexion,” she said. “The beauty of custom made is you can fine tune your options. You can have the dress made in a color that flatters you. You can take the best elements — ‘I love that neckline, I love that skirt, I love the way the lace lays, I like the trim,' whatever it is, you pick the options you really like, you collaborate with the dressmaker, and she'll produce it for you.”

Even in the Twenty-First Century, with an unsure economy and ever-evolving technologies, some things never change. There will always be major events that people want to plan, enjoy,Save 62% on Asymmetric neckline dress Bridesmaid 2013 ! and document as they build a lifetime of memories. Weddings,Mother of the Bride dresses by Rina di Montella take mothers dresses and social occasion gowns to an elegant level. of course, are among the most important, and the most stressful. According to a variety of sources the average American wedding costs over $25,000, creating a huge financial strain. High ticket garments like wedding dresses and prom dresses typically cost many hundreds, even thousands of dollars. Once catering, photography, entertainment, florists, and all of the other expenses add up, the numbers can become rather intimidating. Weddings rank in the top ten most stressful life events as posted in a variety of reliable lists, usually number seven.Has anyone brought a wedding dresses from china?‎ Considering the months of planning, hundreds of variables, and thousands of dollars involved, it is not surprising that some happy couples end up exhausted, frazzled, and frustrated at some point in the wedding planning process.

Fortunately, Make Some Plans has provided a solution to many of these problems. This comprehensive, user-friendly website takes much of the stress out of the planning of weddings and other events. Visitors to the site can simply enter their zip code and select a category: caterers, bakeries, dress and attire, beauty salons, lighting and décor, photographers, reception venues, DJ's and bands, florists, bartenders, men's formal wear, or transportation. The site then directs them straight to a list of some of the best vendors in their area. This simple process can save the user hours of research. It can also potentially save big money, making it easier to narrow down the vendors who offer the best prices. 

A representative from Make Some Plans recently stated: “We wanted to bring people together with the local vendors they need, so that the happiest times in their lives do not become stressful and complicated. This website is as user-friendly as it gets, pointing visitors to some of the best choices available in their areas for everything from photographers and DJ's to wedding dresses, tuxedos, and prom dresses. It is also a fantastic way for vendors to develop relationships with new local customers.See all the looks from the zuhair murad Haute Couture autumn/winter 2012 collection.” This new online service has people all over the country excited and relieved when they begin their event planning processes, and the vendors are finding that the site is benefiting them tremendously, offering them a new venue for free advertising, including social media like Twitter and Facebook. It appears as though Make Some Plans has created a perfect union of ancient tradition and modern technology. 

Kimberly Wyatt donated her ideal wedding dress to charity. 

The former member of the Pussycat Dolls has continued to enjoy success with her solo ventures,The taffeta dessy bridesmaid dresses with a strap of exquisite swarovski and pleating details in the chest part. and serves as a judge on UK talent show Got to Dance. 

The 30-year-old is currently dating British model Max Rogers and despite hoping they will marry one day, she doesn't yet have the perfect dress. 

"[Will we be walking down the aisle soon?] You never know. Every girl can dream!" she smiled to British edition of OK! magazine. 

"I once found this beautiful Vivienne Westwood wedding gown that I simply had to buy and I ended up wearing it for a Got To Dance performance and I've since donated it to charity, so I'll now have to find another dress if it happens!" 

Along with a successful TV career, the pretty blonde has branched out into the cosmetics industry. 

Together with the founder of skincare line Love The Planet, Laura McComiskie, the dancer produced a range of mineral make-up, BM Beauty. 

"To be sitting in London now in my own office with my own branding everywhere, my perfume, my cosmetics and my management company soon launching. I'm beside myself! I still can't believe it. I'm so content and happy." She gushed.

The old wedding joke goes that brides tend to choose ugly bridesmaid dresses, while exclaiming to their attendants,The a-line dress  is one of fashion's most enduring and flattering styles. "You can wear it again and again!" 

Hopefully, Kendall Poole's friends are exceptions to that idea, because Poole has a collection of 20 bridesmaid dresses by now. Poole's experience as a 20-time bridesmaid across 15 years gave her the experience to make the jump to wedding planning full-time. She has witnessed firsthand the chaos that goes on behind the scenes, and her main goal is to allow everyone involved in the wedding to actually enjoy the big day. She says her job as a coordinator is to be the one to make those hard decisions, so that everyone else can relax. 

"I have had the pleasure of visiting 11 countries, lived on the 11th floor in New York, 11 is in my phone number and address," she says. To top off her business' first anniversary, Poole launched a Facebook campaign, with the help of her good friend Jeff Good, to receive 1,111 "likes" by Nov. 11.Motel Deborah Long Sleeve cheap mother of the bride dresses in Black. "It was almost equal to watching the polls," Poole says. Although Kendall Poole Event Planning is only a year old, Poole has planned 25 weddings under her professional organization. 

Born and raised in Rankin County, Poole has coordinated events since she was in high school, starting with pep rallies, birthday parties and homecoming parades. "This is definitely my agape, a blessing from the Lord," she says. "I consider my business almost as a ministry, I want my couples to focus more on planning their marriage, not just a wedding.We Offer Cheap Foral gown." 

It is evident that Poole is following her passion. For each wedding she handles, she makes sure to allow herself time to listen and understand the couples,See all the looks from the Rina di Montella Haute Couture autumn/winter 2012 collection. so that their wedding will not only be a symbol of their love, but also a reflection of them as a couple. 

"You don't know what you are paying me for until after it's over," she says. 

Poole's job also puts her into a position where she plays counselor to soon to be husbands and wives by reminding them the reason of why they are getting married. 

"As long as you are keeping your marriage the number-one priority, then everything else will fall into place," she says. 

Many of Poole's clients arise from word of mouth, and she feels more than blessed to work with so many wonderful vendors to help create such a special day for the bride and groom. 

A photographer once told Poole, "People never know how good you are at your job, because you have already taken care of the problem," and those words still stick with Poole to this day. 

Crisler Boone, my wedding planner, was a huge help in all the planning. I am not the bride who likes to meet 10 times over tablecloth colors and although most brides these days love the do-it-yourself attitude, I am definitely not a DIY type of bride. Having a great planner took care of nine of those meetings. I only had to attend one. (Jacob, of course, got out of all them—he loved that). 

#We got married Nov. 17 at The South. Having over a year to plan a wedding was a great choice for us. I could not imagine planning a wedding in under a year. The stress of making sure my dresses fit, getting bridal photos, and picking out bridal party attire and invitation design was hard enough. 

#I also loved having Wendy Putt at Fresh Cut handle our food, flowers and decor. What Boone didn’t handle, Putt did. Having these two local experts responsible for most of the wedding was amazing. Their expertise took so much unneeded worry and stress off my mind and body. 

#The day of the wedding, I was full of so many emotions. My sweet bridesmaids rented out a room in Julep for brunch. The fun and food helped keep my mind off the nerves. I was not nervous until I started to get my hair and makeup done. The rush of all the planning and stress was all coming out in that moment.Time to find a beautiful mori lee bridesmaid dresses? 

#Once I got to The South, I realized it was all worth it. Everything was perfect. The only thing left was for Jacob and me to see each other. Once Jacob and I had our sweet and loving reveal during the pre-wedding photo session, I was ready to walk down the aisle and get married.

Celebrity wedding dress designer Manuel Mota in apparent suicide; Designer from Spain created gown for Rod Stewart's bride Penny Lancaster, among others 

Manuel Mota and Karolina Kurkova walk the runway at a presentation of the new bridal collection by Pronovias during Barcelona Bridal Week on May 11, 2012 in Barcelona, Spain. 

Spanish celebrity wedding dress designer Manuel Mota of the global brand Pronovias has died aged 46 in an apparent suicide, a police source and reports said Wednesday. 

Mota was creative director for Pronovias for 23 years and made bridal gowns for celebrities such as model Penny Lancaster, the bride of singer Rod Stewart.

A police source who asked not to be named told AFP that Mota's death was "violent" but not a homicide and that the investigation was closed. 

Police gave no further details while El Pais newspaper said it was a suspected suicide. It cited sources in the investigation saying Mota had left a note.The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. 

El Pais said he was found dead at home in Sitges,Shop the latest Bridal gown on the world's largest fashion site. near Barcelona where the company is based. 

Model Irina Shayk attends a final fitting by creative director Manuel Mota for the new 'Pronovias Bridal Collection' 2012 on May 9, 2011 in Barcelona, Spain. 

Pronovias mourned Mota in a statement that gave no details of the circumstances of his death.We offer a wide array of cheap dessy bridesmaid dresses, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. 

"The Pronovias Family has lost one of their most beloved members," said the president of the group Alberto Palatchi, in a statement.Our gorgeous one shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for wedding, proms or any occasion when you need a little extra warmth and glamour. 

"The memory of his collections, his shows, his hard work, his talent and his passion will remain with us forever,What Is Appropriate Off-Shoulder Wedding Dresses?" Palatchi added. 

"Manuel was a great man, a great colleague, a great artist and, above all, a great person." 

Moto had been with Pronovias for 23 years, helping to take the Spanish brand from a family business to a luxe wedding gown label known the world over. 

Victoria’s Secret supermodel Doutzen Kroes wore a dress by Moto at her 2010 wedding, as did Rod Stewart’s wife, Penny Lancaster at their 2007 nuptials. Supermodels Karolina Kurkova, Miranda Kerr, Irina Shayk and Bar Rafaeli have all walked the runway in the label’s shows. Famed Lebanese designer Elie Saab created a capsule 2013 collection for the label. 

"The Pronovias Family has lost one of their most beloved members. The memory of his collections, his shows, his hard work, his talent and his passion will remain with us forever. Manuel was a great man, a great colleague, a great artist and, above all, a great person,” said Alberto Palatchi, President of Pronovias Fashion Group in a release. 

“At this difficult time, I would like to express on behalf of the entire team our deepest sympathy to his family and loved ones. We will never forget him.”

He Said 
My part of the wedding preparation mostly consisted of getting it all started. I had to create a proposal tailored perfectly to the woman I wanted to marry. 

I couldn't think of any place feasible that would be more special to Alex than her home, where it would be just the two of us and, of course, the dogs. 
At the time, I was living in Monroe, La. The day of the proposal, I sped east on Interstate 20 to get to her house while she was at work. By the time I got to Clinton, I realized I'd only have a few minutes to prepare the house. 

So I sent a text message to Alex asking her to go to the store and get some made-up request I didn't really need, just to buy some time. She said she was tired, and she just wanted to go home. My plan was falling apart. 
I got to her house and ran inside. I put on my best coat and tie.Both the 2010 and 2011 Miss Americas were crowned in La Femme dress made by Sherri Hill. I started pulling petals off some of roses I'd bought. I made a trail of the petals from the carport door to the bedroom, lined with white candles and full red roses. 

Right as I was about to light the first candle, I looked up and saw Alex's face through the glass in the door. I ran to the door and opened it. 
“Go sit in the car. Give me five minutes,” I said. I thought the wholeShop the latest Bridal gown on the world's largest fashion site. surprise was blown. 

Five minutes passed and she was still in the car. I called her cell—no answer. Ten minutes. Still no answer. Fifteen minutes.What Is Appropriate Off-Shoulder Wedding Dresses? By this point, I was drenched in sweat. Fifteen minutes earlier, I was 100-percent sure she'd say yes, but that was dwindling with every second I didn't see her. Was she not coming in because she knew what I was about to do and she didn't want me to? 
Finally, she answered the phone. “Come inside,” I said. 

I heard the door open. “Oh my goodness!” she said. 
Alex followed the trail of roses and candles to the bedroom, where I was waiting with the ring. When she walked it, I immediately got down on one knee. 

“Are you serious?” she asked as tears began to well up in her eyes. 
“Alexandra Horrobin, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?” I asked. I don't remember if she managed a verbal response or not, but I'm pretty sure she conveyed a yes somehow. 

From there, my preparation included tasting food and saying: “If that's what you want, Baby, get it.” 
The day of the wedding was a blast. The greatest moment was when I saw the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen in her dress for the first time, as we were doing photos prior to the ceremony. I knew I'd picked the right one.We offer a wide array of cheap dessy bridesmaid dresses, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. 

She Said 
Wedding planning isn't just a process, it is an experience. Mine started when Jacob and I got engaged in July 2011. I walked into my house and found it lined with beautiful flowers and candles. That's when my brain kicked into planning mode. 

Of course, the wedding magazines and Pinterest boards ran wild. They took over my desktop and life. My dream colors and flowers changed daily. 

Crisler Boone, my wedding planner, was a huge help in all the planning. I am not the bride who likes to meet 10 times over tablecloth colors and although most brides these days love the do-it-yourself attitude,Light up a room in this pageant dress evening gown. I am definitely not a DIY type of bride. Having a great planner took care of nine of those meetings. I only had to attend one. (Jacob, of course, got out of all them—he loved that). 
We got married Nov. 17 at The South. Having over a year to plan a wedding was a great choice for us. I could not imagine planning a wedding in under a year. The stress of making sure my dresses fit, getting bridal photos, and picking out bridal party attire and invitation design was hard enough. 

I also loved having Wendy Putt at Fresh Cut handle our food, flowers and decor. What Boone didn't handle, Putt did. Having these two local experts responsible for most of the wedding was amazing. Their expertise took so much unneeded worry and stress off my mind and body. 

The day of the wedding, I was full of so many emotions. My sweet bridesmaids rented out a room in Julep for brunch. The fun and food helped keep my mind off the nerves. I was not nervous until I started to get my hair and makeup done. The rush of all the planning and stress was all coming out in that moment. 
Once I got to The South, I realized it was all worth it. Everything was perfect. The only thing left was for Jacob and me to see each other. Once Jacob and I had our sweet and loving reveal during the pre-wedding photo session, I was ready to walk down the aisle and get married. 

My wedding was beautiful, but it went by so fast. The countdown began the day I got engaged. Then I turned around, and it was all over. All that planning for one day can be a bit disheartening when its over, but I would not change it for the world.

A new investigation into the death of singer Amy Winehouse found that she died of accidental alcohol poisoning, authorities in London said Tuesday. 

The conclusion was the same as that of an earlier investigation, which had to be thrown out because the coroner did not have the right qualifications. 

The Grammy Award-winning artist,Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1512 Collection Dresses. who had battled with alcohol and drug abuse for several years,Embrace modern glamour in this evening gown from strapless wedding dress. was found dead at her north London home on July 23, 2011, at age 27. 

The new inquest was ordered in December by the London borough of Camden. 

Dr Shirley Radcliffe, interim coroner for Inner North London, gave a verdict of "death by misadventure" Tuesday, meaning the death is judged to be accidental, with no law broken and no criminal negligence involved. 

Winehouse "had a history of excessive alcohol ingestion for some years and was under the care of a number of physicians," Radcliffe told the court, according to a summary provided by Camden Council. 

"She had had a period of abstinence from alcohol for 12-13 days in July but a few days before her death she began to drink alcohol again. 

"Following her death the police attended and deemed the death to be non-suspicious. Toxicological analysis revealed a level of alcohol commonly associated with fatality.A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions." 

The original coroner, Suzanne Greenaway, lost her position as assistant deputy coroner, to which she was appointed by her husband,Find your favorite 2013 prom dress from the great selection... London Coroner Andrew Reid, after it was discovered that she had not been a registered lawyer in the United Kingdom for the requisite five years. 

A life cut short: Remembering the tragedy of Amy Winehouse 

Greenaway's report also concluded that Winehouse died of alcohol poisoning, in a "death by misadventure." 

A pathologist told Greenaway's court that Winehouse's blood-alcohol level was 416 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood. The level considered lethal is 350 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood, and the legal limit to drive in Britain is 80 milligrams of alcohol. 

The pathologist found no traces of tablets in Winehouse's stomach and said her organs appeared to be normal. 

The singer's soulful, throaty vocals brought her stardom in 2007, but her troubled off-stage life -- chronicled in her top 10 hit "Rehab" -- won her notoriety. 

Her death came less than two months after her latest release from a rehabilitation program and weeks after she was booed offstage by disappointed fans in Serbia. 

The tattooed London-born singer-songwriter's first album, "Frank," debuted in 2003,The zuhair murad collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. when she was 19. 

International success came with her 2007 album "Back to Black." She dominated the 2008 Grammys, winning five awards that night and delivering, via satellite from London, a strong performance of "Rehab."

Most brides will tell you planning a wedding isn't easy. With south Georgia's largest bridal expo coming up this weekend, some say iThe zuhair murad collection offers a truly unique line of dresses.t's the best way to plan your wedding all in one day. 

Abby Adams is getting married in six months. 

"Already counting down the days, and there's still over 100 left,A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions." said Adams. 

And this bride still needs to book everything for her wedding. 

"I had no idea how much work it would be to put together a wedding. It seems really easy when you see TV shows about it, but when you're actually in the process of it, it's a lot more work than it looks like," said Adams. 

With south Georgia's largest bridal expo kicking off this Saturday, many brides like Adams hope this event will be one stop shopping. 

"To know that everything will be in one place is exciting. I can see a lot of caters and florists, even wedding dresses, and see all of that in one place," said Adams. 

Steel's Jewelry is sponsoring the event. And with more than 60 vendors, you can find everything from your DJ to your honeymoon destination. 

"We've been involved with it from the beginning and it's just really neat to see each year more and more people come out and support it, and more and more brides come out and support it," said Nicole Steel, Marketing Manager. 

Steel says the expo is the most convenient way to plan a wedding. 

"This will be an event where a bride can walk in and walk out with her entire wedding planned." 

Adams says even though planning a wedding takes a lot of work, it's still all worth it. 

"Planning takes a really long time and it's a long process but it's been exciting getting to see all of the different kinds of caters, florists, and wedding dresses, and picking out what best fits my style best." 

The bridal expo is this Saturday from 10-3 p.Find your favorite 2013 prom dress from the great selection...m. at the Rainwater Conference Center. Tickets are $7 at the door. 

“I think it’s wonderful that it is fashionable and more in people’s minds to be green. I just think that they might be spending a little bit too much money on it. I think you can do everything cheaper if you do it yourself and it’s more fun as well. It makes your wedding more personal,” says Becci. 

A different style and a whole different budget too: Lucy Tamman’s Atelier in London’s fashionable Bloomsbury neighbourhood. 

A graduate from London’s prestigious Central St Martin’s College of art and design, Tamman is a pioneer in eco-couture: 

“When someone looks at my gowns they don’t say 
‘It’s hippie and ethical’, they say ‘It’s a beautiful, unique, couture,Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1512 Collection Dresses. design’ and they can see the craftsmanship and the quality straight away,” says designeEmbrace modern glamour in this evening gown from strapless wedding dress.r Lucy Tamman. 

“But I have the added extra of being ethical so there’s more to the dress, there’s a story behind it, which is very much appreciated by most of the brides because it gives a little bit extra and they can know, on their wedding day, that no one has been exploited to help them create that perfect day.” 

And be assured that your best will be all the better for the environment, however green you go. Katie Fewings has this advice:

Chateau de Chic Salon, Spa & Boutique will be presenting a wedding and formal wear event at its salon at 104 N. Broadway Ave., in Spring Valley on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The event will showcase southeast Minnesota as a superb wedding destination, featuring beautiful locations, knowledgeable businesses and impeccable services. 

There will be more than 500 "lightly loved" bridal and prom dresses for sale along with tiaras, hairpieces, jewelry, accessories and much more. 

Steph Thouin of Chateau de Chic, who is overseeing the event,The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. said attendees will have the opportunity to shop for dresses and accessories and get wedding ideas. The event will also have cake, food and wine tasting offered, along with prize drawings for attendees. Local businesses will be featured and will share their expertise in wedding services. TJ's Liquor, Spring Valley Greenhouse and Victorian Gourmet Cakes & Catering will be on hand to answer questions about their products. Thouin noted there are a lot of businesses in the area that offer services for those planning a wedding. "We wanted to showcase them," she added. 

Chateau de Chic will be highlighting wedding trends for 2013 through fashion, accessories, hair and makeup for this year's brides to be. "I'm excited to showcase the trends and the displays we have are fun," shared Thouin. 

Chateau de Chic is a full-service salon and spa specializing in hair, skin, nails, massage, tanning and a full boutique with professional products, clothing and accessories. 

Thouin encourages people to stop by for the event, adding if one knows someone getting married or are planning a wedding themselves, it's a great way to save some money and gather ideas to help make the "big day" a truly memorable event. 

There will also be several other events happening in Spring Valley Jan. 12. The Wilder Foot Races will begin at 9 a.m. at the Kingsland High School. For more information, look elsewhere in this issue. Two businesses will be holding grand openings as well - Vintage Point Artifacts on Broadway and The Little Remodeling Company on North Section. Johnny Ringo's on Broadway will be holding one of its comedy nights that evening as well. 

The top three gift categories expected to be re-sold are clothes and accessories, music and computers. It's also an opportunity to resell other items you want rid of. 

"eBay.ie sees a flurry of items being re-sold after Christmas like clothing and including shoes, dresses and shirts and which could be a result of incorrect sizing," says Steven Heywood of eBay.his elegant selection of high low prom dresses will have you looking stunning for the big day!Custom made mermaid chiffon one shoulder wedding dress?ie. 

"The average person receives anywhere from 50 to 150 worth of unused items. There's money to be made from mistakes," he says. 

Declutter therapist Breda recommends patience if you're looking to sell goods online which you've had for a long period of time. 

"In recent recessionary times we've seen a great increase in the selling of unwanted goods,Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose. on and offline," she says. 

"As attractive as this may seem, many items can be difficult and time-consuming to sell, and the monetary rewards often disappointing. In terms of clothing, most items lose the bulk of their value within a year of purchase so it's unsurprising to see online auction sites flooded with unloved garments," Breda says. 

Age Action is appealing to the public to donate their unwanted Christmas gifts to provide funds for its work with older people. Age Action spokesman Eamon Timmins said: "Whether it is a jumper or blouse, a piece of jewellery or a DVD,This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. rather than leave it sitting in the bottom of the wardrobe for the next 12 months, consider donating it to an Age Action shop." 

Meanwhile, four new St Vincent de Paul shops opened up in the run-up to Christmas in the Dublin area, and with a new one due to open in Bray this month, the total of SVP shops in Dublin will reach 40. Jim Walsh, spokesperson for SVP says: "Both a wider variety of people and goods come into the shops now. Donations have remained the same but the demand has gone up, so people are always welcome dropping things in."

Rails and rails full of flowing white gowns, regal tiaras, glinting jewellery, ivory heels – it is enough to give any prospective groom palpitations. 

When childhood friends Beth Gray and Gemma Gallant finalised their plan to start a bridal business, they hot-footed it over to the British Bridal Exhibition in Harrogate. 

Beth said: "It is a man's worst nightmare." 

Wading through the frocks, Beth was keeping a tight grip on the budget while Gemma was poring over silk and tulle.Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose. 

Beth said: "It was so stereotypical. I turned up with my calculator, my notepad and my budget." 

As a newlywed, Gemma takes care of the bridal side of things. She married her husband Rob in August and has had her eye on the marriage market for some time. Beth is the business brain who used to work as a management consultant for multi-million-pound international company Deloitte. 

Beth is the ying to Gemma's yang. The two have been friends since they went to primary school in Hessle together, riding about on matching bikes. 

The close friends even spent Gemma's honeymoon together. 

Although Gemma and Ross had a honeymoon booked in New York for months after their wedding, their tight-knit group of friends were going to Ibiza the following day and secretly booked the newlyweds' flights and a hotel to themselves, then they spent the rest of the week with 12 of them in a villa. 

"Most people spend their honeymoon on a secluded beach, just the two of them," Gemma said. 

Taking a real interest in the bride's big day is what the pair are most thrilled about. 

"It is exciting to think it is such a big occasion and we can help them to find the perfect dress," Beth said. 

Everything started coming together once they found the perfect spot for the shop. The social hub of Princes Avenue was just what they were looking for. 

"We are a smallish boutique, so it didn't feel right to plonk ourselves in the middle of Princes Quay," Beth said. 

When Gemma, 30, was rushing around finishing the details for her own nuptials at the KP Club in Pocklington, she saw many of the problems of the trade first-hand. 

Best friend Beth was one of the bridesmaids. Between the two of them, they have tried to iron out those creases. 

The movies love a good film montage of the bride and crew slipping in and out of flouncy frocks with a glass of bubbly, but many bridal shops only allow the bride to bring two people along. This can leave mums, sisters and friends out in the cold. 

The boutique will be available to rent for the night for bridesmaid parties, so the bride can bring her entourage. 

"It is like a girl's dream, and you only get to do it once," Beth said. "Well, hopefully." 

Since Gemma managed to get everything she wanted on her big day,Custom made mermaid chiffon one shoulder wedding dress? she really wants to help brides get the most out of theirs. 

Gemma said: "It can be a really nerve-racking experience. 

"I didn't dream about what dress I wanted, so it was hard to choose. 

"I didn't know what would suit me, but now I know all our dresses and I can pick out something our brides might not choose themselves." 

Bride & Co cannot stock designs sold by shops within 25 miles but at the bridal exhibition they snapped up established names, such as the Enzoani Beautiful range and D'zage Bridal Range, as well as up-and-coming designers. 

Striking the balance between the perfect gown and spending your life savings is important to them. 

We have all had a moment like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, when you feel snubbed in a fancy boutique because you do not have a platinum credit card. 

If you have a budget, Gemma and Beth do not want you to stress. They will point you towards the dresses to get the most out of your money. 

Beth said: "It's the elephant in the room that nobody mentions.This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. 

"You still want the bridal experience even if you aren't spending 3,000 on a dress." 

Gemma knows that it is easy to get in a flap and forget when their dresses go from 500 to 1,500.his elegant selection of high low prom dresses will have you looking stunning for the big day! 

Gemma said: "When you are trying them on, there are so many you can't remember how much they all are. 

"We don't want people to put the dress on, then find out how much it is." 

Beth's boyfriend, Ross Bellingham, is having a tough time since the boutique opened. 

Beth said: "When I came home and said I had just bought 50 wedding dresses, my boyfriend's face went blue." 

But there are a lot of perks to the job. 

Beth said: "My boyfriend just thinks, well at least we can get a cheap dress when the time comes." 

Bride & Co in Princes Avenue, west Hull,The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. opens today. Call 01482 341622 for more information or to book an appointment.

Fashion reboot: Slimmer gowns,A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions. more colour 
Coloured bridal gowns aren't an entirely new style phenomenon. But from recent celebrity weddings to spring 2013 designer runways, fresh creations for the walk down the aisle are emerging in shades beyond traditional white, ivory and cream. 

Last fall, actresses Anne Hathaway and Jessica Biel each donned designer wedding dresses incorporating pink, a year after Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon said her “I do's” in a blush-coloured gown. No Doubt's Gwen Stefani was well ahead of the coloured-dress curve when she wore her famed Galliano gown dip-dyed in hot pink for her 2002 nuptials. 

Future brides aspiring to be pretty in pink will have their share of options to sift through in 2013, whether it's a subtle touch of pale pastel or a more colourful creation drenched in the rosy hue. 

“I just think that it is all inspired by the idea of the blushing bride, and that pink just seems to be a beautiful natural transition of that,” said Victoria Rucks, district manager for David's Bridal Canada. “It's really (a colour) that flatters a lot of skin tones as well.Time to find a beautiful mori lee bridesmaid dresses?” 

Alison McGill, editor-in-chief of Weddingbells magazine,Custom made mermaid chiffon one shoulder wedding dress? said the recent coloured-dress trend is one that has been designer driven. 

She started to see a style shift with respect to gowns and colour with Vera Wang's all-black collection for fall 2012. The New York designer's bridal collection for spring 2013 showcased various tones of red. In the case of both lines, the dresses are also available in white, McGill noted. 

Fashion legend Oscar de la Renta and New York-based Canadian designer Romona Keveza also showed bridal creations for spring 2013 including hues like red and blue. 

“I think it's designers presenting brides with different options because brides want to be able to have something really unique for their wedding day, and having colour in your dress certainly is a very impactful way (to do so),” said McGill. 

Beyond dresses in bolder hues, silhouettes and dress styles for brides are also getting a fashion reboot. 

“The same silhouette has been popular for so long and that's the sort of princess ballgown strapless style with the big skirt, lots of volume,” said McGill. “I think we were long overdue for a bit of a switchup with styles.” 

Among the options: 

ILLUSION NECKLINE: The sheer overlay at the top of the dress connects to the bodice offering a see-through effect and a “beautiful finish.” 

“It shows a hint of skin while still keeping it modest,” said Rucks. 

FANCIFUL BACKS: From keyhole cut-outs to cascading, flowing ribbons, McGill said a notable trend emerging is the attention to detail on the backs of wedding dresses. 

Rucks said the illusion effect seen in necklines, along with bow details, are among the stylish embellishments being showcased on the backs of bridal gowns this year. 

SLEEVES: It's been nearly two years since the Duchess of Cambridge wowed many with her luxurious lace bridal gown, and the embrace of sleeved dresses into the wedding wear fold remains strong. 

“People are looking to add three-quarter length or full-length sleeves to a lot of existing gowns,” said Rucks, noting brides can also pair their dress with small jackets to strike a similar effect. 

VINTAGE: Some designers are reviving retro looks from fashion's glam eras for the modern bride. 

“We're definitely seeing that '50s,Embrace modern glamour in this evening gown from strapless wedding dress. '60s vibe with the tea length cut to the hemline, crinoline to give it the poodle skirt kind of a feel,” said Rucks. 

For brides seeking retro-inspired accessories to accent their wedding day ensemble, Rucks said there's everything from beaded purses to lush lace covered platform heels and even fascinator-style headpieces channelling the 1920s esthetic. 

In need an elegant touch to cap off your wedding day wardobe? Rucks suggested opting to incorporate gloves into the look. “Whether it's wrist-length or up the elbow, satin gloves bring the whole picture together.Light up a room in this pageant dress evening gown.”

With his wife upstairs at Glens Falls Hospital going through another procedure for her injured knee, Michael Bills took a walk outside and into a wedding Saturday. 

“I saw a woman in a wedding dress walking into the front door of the hospital, and I asked her if she was getting married,” said Bills, a Queensbury resident who is a contractor and a part-time wedding photographer. 

“She told me that her father was very sick and that they had hoped to get married in February, but had to move it up and do it at the hospital,” Bills said. “I asked her what room they would be in, then ran out to my truck and got my camera gear. 

“You know it just seemed like the right thing to do. I never even hesitated.” 

With her father, James Marsh, very ill with cancer, Melonie Nolan was determined he would see her married. 

With help from hospital officials, she was able to arrange a ceremony in a room across the hall from her father's. 

That brought her to the hospital door at the same time as Bills. 

“We were shocked,” said the bride, who was entering the hospital with other members of the wedding party. “My husband (Scott) was already in the room, and he had no idea.” 

Nolan said she was stunned when Bills made his offer. 

“He said, ‘This is my gift to you,' ” she said. 

“We didn't have a photographer for our wedding, so this was the only way we got pictures,” she added, referring to a second, larger wedding ceremony later Saturday. 

Bills did a complete set of wedding photos, which he is putting on a CD and will give to the Nolans. 

The bride, whose maiden name is McAbee, is a former Granville resident who now lives in Troy with her husband. Her family is from Granville.Find the perfect Junior Bridesmaid Dresses to wear. 

Family friends Theresa and Robert Cutter completed the wedding party as maid of honor and best man at the hospital. 

After Justice of the Peace Colleen Lyon performed the wedding, the bridal party headed to the Modern Woodmen of America Hall in Wells,This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. Vt., just over the border from Granville, for a second wedding in front of about 50 friends. 

Lyon performed the service again, and everyone celebrated at a reception 

Bills has been spending a fair deal of time at the hospital himself because his wife, Patty, suffered a serious knee injury in a fall and has needed a series of procedures. 

He was happy to be in the right place at the right time.One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the lace wedding veils. 

“I didn't want anything from it. I just knew it was something I could do for them,” he said. “I could not believe the reaction.Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose. I put one photo on Facebook and everyone went crazy.” 

Nolan's friends and relatives started re-posting and soon all of them knew the story and had seen the photos. 

For their part, the newlyweds enjoyed their reception, visited the bride's father again on Sunday and then did what they really wanted to Monday. 

“We slept,” Melonie Nolan said. “We hadn't slept in three days. That's what we needed.Our gorgeous one shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for wedding, proms or any occasion when you need a little extra warmth and glamour.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus took time out from their busy schedule Dec. 24 to visit Winter Wonderland in East Peoria. Santa, also known as Geary Stanley, and his bride, Denise Feller, tied the knot on Christmas Eve during a small ceremony with some friends and family. Stanley, 54, of Creve Coeur is a maintenance man at East Peoria High School. Feller, 48, of Peoria works at WMBD-TV as a receptionist. 

Almost like the Dan Fogelberg song that is played at Christmas, Feller and Stanley, who already knew each other, reconnected five years ago when they bumped into each other at a gas station. But in this story, they did not part ways. Feller said they wanted their wedding to be extra special. “Geary has been playing Santa for about 10 years now for different events. His favorites are the Creve Coeur Santa Walk and playing Santa for the special needs kids at the high school. When we got together, I decided to join him,” Feller said. The couple volunteers their time posing as Santa and Mrs. Claus. “We use our own money to buy toys for kids that we do personal appearances for. We do as many as we have time for. Geary makes a wonderful Santa. 

The kids just love him,” Feller said. Stanley started doing the Santa bit when one of the fellow Boy Scout leaders, George Pilkington, told him that they needed Santas for the Creve Coeur Santa walk. After that he was hooked. He purchased his own suit and Feller,Our gorgeous one shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for wedding, proms or any occasion when you need a little extra warmth and glamour. likewise, owns hers. “Because this is something that we both love to do, we decided that we would work our wedding into this theme. After a lot of discussion and working with (city commissioner) Tim Jeffers, we decided on the sleigh scene there at the Winter Wonderland, as Mr. and Mrs. Claus,” Feller said. Stanley wore his Santa outfit and Feller wore a red dress with boots and a Santa Robe. 

She carried poinsettias as her flower. Tom Meadows Sr. of Peoria performed the ceremony, which lasted about 10 minutes due to the cold weather. After the ceremony, the group headed to Ming's in East Peoria for their reception. “We will be out of our Santa garb by then, because Geary and I don't want to confuse any kids by having Santa at Ming's when he should be out delivering presents,” Feller said. The couple headed north (maybe to the North Pole) for their honeymoon over New Year's weekend. “We are both Boy Scout leaders and have camped out in the cold before.Find the perfect Junior Bridesmaid Dresses to wear. We'll be spending our time out in the great outdoors, one of our other loves,One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the lace wedding veils.” Feller said. 

What's the hottest hue for Prom 2013 gowns? "Red rules," says Librach. "The color of divas, red in any shade attracts attention. Plus it exudes passion and drama. What better choice for a night as big as Prom?" 

Prints, strong for the past several years, fade for Prom 2013 in favor of irresistible solids in striking, vibrant colors like electric pink and deep sea turquoise. "These eye-catching hues guarantee you'll get spotted on – and off- the dance floor," Librach says. 

What styles are in big demand? "Star-studded Prom girls must have long, flowing chiffon gowns with jaw-dropping details that revival the glam seen on the red-carpet," says Librach. 

For the girl who dreams of being the Prom Princess, nothing will do but a Cinderella ball gown. "At Prom 2013, ball gowns take on a very sophisticated look for an oh-so modern fairy-tale dress," Librach says.Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose.This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. 

Teens are going to new lengths for Prom 2013 gowns. "High-low hemline dresses make the perfect option for girls who can't decide whether to wear a short Prom dress or a long formal," Librach says.

DEAR ABBY: I spent the afternoon running errands. As I left the shopping center, I saw a young couple with a baby and a toddler holding a sign requesting help with food, as the husband had just been laid off. I drove past, then considered the children and circled back. 

I had no cash with me, so I stopped and offered them our family's dinner -- a jar of premium spaghetti sauce, a pound of fresh ground beef, a box of dried spaghetti,Online shopping for custom made designer affordable one shoulder wedding dresses.A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions. fruit cups that my children usually take to school for treats, and some canned soups I occasionally have for lunch. 

Imagine my surprise when the couple declined my generosity. Instead, the man strongly suggested that I should go to a nearby ATM and withdraw cash to donate to them because they preferred to select their own groceries and pay their phone bills. What are your thoughts on this? -- GENUINELY PUZZLED IN AUSTIN, TEXAS 

DEAR PUZZLED: What happened is a shame. Some families are truly in need and should be guided to a shelter so they can receive help getting back on their feet. However, in some cities you see the same people on the same streets for long periods of time. They have staked out their "turf," and because the money they are given is tax-free, some of them are doing quite well. In your case, the couple you saw holding the sign may have been professional panhandlers, and the children may have been "borrowed." 

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been separated for a year and I have filed for divorce. We have reached an agreement about everything except one thing: our tortoise. This may seem strange, but Herbert has always been our "child." I think of him as my kid, and I believe my husband when he says he loves him that much, too. We got Herbert as a baby that fit into the palm of my hand. Herbert is now 9, very large and lives in the backyard in a "doghouse" structure.

The problem is, my husband still wants to see Herbert. He agrees that he will visit only when I am not at home. I don't distrust him or worry he will try to take Herbert, but I just don't want him here. 

I know that if Herbert is mine legally, I won't have to let anyone see him. Once our divorce is final, I want nothing more to do with my husband and he knows that. But it's like telling someone he could never see his kid again. I'd really like to know your thoughts. -- NICOLE IN SANFORD, FLA. 

DEAR NICOLE: Because you can't split Herbert in half, why not consider shared custody? If your husband can provide a safe place for the tortoise to stay while he's with "Daddy," you could work out an agreement so that you could exchange your "kid" at a neutral place -- such as your veterinarian's office -- and you wouldn't have to see your husband and vice versa. 

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary next summer, and we're planning to renew our vows. I'm trying to decide if I should wear my original wedding gown. (I wore it on our 25th anniversary.) 

Would it be in good taste to wear the same dress, or should I go with something else? We'll be inviting some of the same people who attended the 25th anniversary party. -- MARY IN ALBUQUERQUE 

DEAR MARY: Congratulations on your long and happy marriage.One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the lace wedding veils. If you can still fit into your original wedding dress, by all means wear it. I consider it an accomplishment. You'll be the envy of most of the women at your celebration, and probably some of the men. 

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.Embrace modern glamour in this evening gown from strapless wedding dress.com or P.Our gorgeous one shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for wedding, proms or any occasion when you need a little extra warmth and glamour.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. 

To receive a collection of Abby's most memorable -- and most frequently requested -- poems and essays, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $7 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby -- Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price.

Problem: A post-Christmas budget combined with children who still need warm winter clothing. 

Solution: The Hub, a nearly new shop in Almonte brimming with everything from winter boots ($2 to $4 for children, $6 for adults) to snowsuits ($5) not to mention teen jeans, toys and household items. 

Bonus: Proceeds from sales at the non-profit Hub go toward launching a much-needed mobile hospice service for the area. 

“Everybody shops at The Hub,” says Glenda Jones, the upbeat president of the organization that donates tens of thousands of dollars annually to community causes. “I bet you could dress a kid for less than $10 here.” 

In fact, with baby wear priced at $2 and under, winter coats for young and old running $4 to $6 and men's suits at $5, you could outfit the whole family — head to toe — for far less than a week's worth of groceries. And you could do it stylishly: November's Teen WOW Jeans Blowout, for example,Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose. featured brand names, like American Eagle, Aeropostale and Paige Demin at five bucks and under.The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. 

For the true bargain hunter, The Hub hosts a “bag night” every Thursday: For $5, you get to stuff a grocery bag as full as you can with whatever suits your fancy. 

Established in 1975, The Hub (its formal name is the Almonte Community Co-ordinators) provides financial support to the community of Mississippi Mills, which includes the towns of Almonte and Pakenham. 

With help from its sister store Rebound, also located in Almonte and which sells furniture,This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. appliances and the like, The Hub donates an average $50,000 annually to scholarships, health needs, sports teams, seniors' events and more, including a suicide prevention course for high schools. It has also given to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (that's why it was founded) and Interval House for abused women. 

“It's a pretty amazing little business,” says Jones. “The secret is the quality of what we sell and that everything is donated.” And except for a cleaner and some folks who sort through the donations each night, it's staffed by volunteers. The Hub also owns the building it's in and rents out a second-floor apartment to cover the building's operating costs. 

In early 2012,We offer a wide array of cheap dessy bridesmaid dresses, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. The Hub, led by founding member Julia Thomas, launched Hub Hospice Palliative Care with a donation of $10,000.Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1512 Collection Dresses. It's since added another $3,000 from sales and community donations and will continue helping fund the hospice, which Jones says should be operational by the fall of 2013 at the latest. 

Although she hopes the hospice will eventually include a permanent three- to five-bed facility, it will be a primarily mobile service — Jones refers to it as a “hospice without walls” — staffed by volunteers. Over a dozen people have already signed up to take the volunteer training course planned for the spring. 

Offering emotional and caregiver support, light housekeeping, transportation and other assistance, the service will be free to people approaching the end of life whether in their own homes, retirement facilities or elsewhere. The hospice will initially serve Mississippi Mills and later expand.

Mariah Carey was just 18 when she was plucked from Long Island and launched as a singing superstar by Sony Music boss Tommy Mottola. Besides making hits, the pair were romantically involved, infamously married in an over-the-top 1993 wedding that had 50 flower girls (ten times more than Princess Diana). But when their union crumbled,Wholesale high quality and beautiful Embroidery lace dress Wait for You to Choose. Carey revealed that Mottola was "controlling" and restrictive" and made her wary of marriage. Now Mottola is ready to tell his side of the story—which basically backs up Carey's claims. 

The NY Post took a look at Mottola's memoir, Hitmaker, and declares that his marriage with Carey was "the most sinister marriage in pop music this side of Ronnie and Phil Spector." He claims that Carey was flirting with him from the start (he was married at the time) and even his therapist told him not to get involved with Carey. From the Post: 

“You don’t understand!” he’d tell his shrink, according to the book. “Mariah is going to be the biggest star in the world. She’s going to be as big as Michael Jackson.” 

Undeterred, his therapist kept telling Mottola that Carey was still just a teenage girl, one barely out of a rough upbringing, who was in no way his equal — chronologically, mentally, emotionally, professionally.Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1512 Collection Dresses...The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. 

Mottola felt particularly vindicated when he escorted Carey to her first-ever Grammy ceremony, where she won two awards — and not because she was his biggest project, but because his shrink was probably watching. 

“I can only now wonder about the expression on my therapist’s face when . . . she saw Mariah thank God for that first Grammy, and then Tommy Mottola for believing in her,This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta.” he writes. “She could no longer call me delusional.” 

Mottola, who oversaw all aspects of work, explains why he made Carey, then 21, keep working and not spend time with her friends, "My feeling was that there’d be plenty of time for Mariah to celebrate just a little ways down the road. I’m not talking 10 years, just a few." 

Mottola kept Carey in a Bedford, NY estate which she nicknamed "Sing Sing".We offer a wide array of cheap dessy bridesmaid dresses, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. Carey later said to Interview, "I understand him not wanting me to go out and hang out all night, but going to a spa with friends every now and then, or doing things on my own would have made a world of difference. And I'd probably still be with him if I had," and to CNN, when asked "How trapped did you feel by that relationship?," "We don't have enough time in this interview." 

The pair broke up in 1997 and Carey took over her own music (see: "Honey"). And then in 2005, with her album, The Emancipation of Mimi, the video for "We Belong Together" featured Carey wearing the wedding dress she wore when she married Mottola and Eric Roberts as her evil, creepy groom. 

Mottola, who was portrayed as a thug in a 1996 Vanity Fair profile, justifies his behavior in his book, "If it seemed like I was controlling. I apologize. Was I obsessive? Yes. But that was also part of the reason for her success.”

On the verge of any historic shift, some people rise to the occasion, enunciating a modernist attitude, others stubbornly cling to what worked in the past, a few enrage their loved ones by pushing for faster, more radical change, and still more are oblivious,Lace V-neckline dress, it's time to bring sexy back with this dress befitting of a full-fledged femme fatale. mired in smaller concerns and unable to see the culture evolving around them. 

That's true whether the new wave brings loosening standards of dinnerwear, the admission of women into the workforce or the possibility of forgiveness for one who has transgressed.One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the lace wedding veils. 

All are topics for contemplation, along with terrific wardrobes and period effects, as the Brit hit "Downton Abbey" opens its third season on PBS Sunday night.Designer bari jay bridesmaid dresses listed for sale at a fraction of the retail price. 

Fate will bring many changes to the great house and all of "Downton's" personalities will be tested. 

Neither age nor station in life are good predictors of who will welcome change and who will fear it. The ceremonious Earl of Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), his mother Lady Violet (Maggie Smith) and the punctilious head of the downstairs crew Mr. Carson (Jim Carter) will valiantly fight to maintain the standards and biases of the past. Matthew's mother, Isobel Crawley (Penelope Wilton), will logically and confidently question the status quo. Certain offspring will push the family to evolve, others will be horrified by the idea of flexibility. 

The changing mores of Edwardian England will prove variously daunting and liberating. Difficult matters of interfaith marriage, Irish independence, servant-aristocrat relations and,Motel Deborah Long Sleeve cheap mother of the bride dresses in Black. not least, the difference between a soup spoon and a boullion spoon will be confronted head on. 

No spoilers here, and with luck you'll avoid the abundant Internet spoilers about the series' casting for the future. Just know there will be a season 4. 

It's not ruining any suspense to say Shirley MacLaine is fun in small doses as Martha Levinson, the thoroughly modern American mother of Cora Crawley, the Countess of Grantham. Her scenes with Maggie Smith as arch-traditionalist Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess, crackle with wit. Fortunately, their self-aware cleverness is not sustained over too many episodes. Nobody wants the Violet and Martha drawing room smackdown to become the entire show. 

Suffice to say life-cycle events give structure to the tale. The outside world is encroaching on the manners and customs of Downton world. Now and then, even the Grantham gang must give in to the exigencies of a less-formal dinner jacket. 

Once again, as a new season of the pop culture phenom begins, a few caveats: the language is often more appealing than the storylines, the wardrobes are often more magnificent than the relationships. The lavish dinner table scenes, again and again, amount to period porn for British drama lovers. 

Even devoted followers must admit it's essentially a droll, addicting soap opera that doesn't rise to the level of gut-wrenching drama or cerebral social commentary. So what? This is put-your-feet-up, pour-a-brandy television, a tasty import that's good company for a culture undergoing its own sometimes dizzying shifts. 

Beyonce could wear anything and it would be dope…that's why she is the Queen B. Her instagram pic made everyone look because she did it so hard.What Is Appropriate Off-Shoulder Wedding Dresses? There is something edgy about a woman in a cap , bamboo ear rings and a dope jacket. I guess she’s letting us know that she is not for play out here. I hear you Beyonce. I don’t want any problems with you. 

Ri Ri aka Rihanna is just thorough and makes everything she rocks look gangsta. When she wears her bamboo ear rings she gives you that straight out of Brooklyn look. I am not made at Chris. I see way he can't stop taking pictures. 

Damn, them ear rings are big. But they look good on you Adrienne. If you like to make a big statement then rocking these ear rings will definitely do the trick.

The Chime of the wedding belles have started resonating, heralding the wedding season. Shaili Dhagat gives a flavour of the fever 

Coy, dainty, gorgeous and beautiful brides. Stylish, handsome, majestic and dashing grooms. Age-old customs, rituals, a lavish feast, relatives and guests make for a heart-warming wedding. Well, the wedding season is on and Delhi and Bangalore are geared up to have, host and attend some big fat Indian weddings. When the wedding bells ring,The zuhair murad collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. great joy,After compare the wedding dresses from china Plus Size on all the online stores . pleasure, festivities and merry-making, come along. Fine dressing is a major part of all Indian weddings. Whether it is the bride, the groom or the guests, the attire hold a special place. There are special parlours for bridal grooming, wedding planners and marriage packages too that cater to all needs of brides and grooms. 

There is an awesome collection this wedding season. The attire and accessories for both bride and groom are both exclusive and exotic. Says Manoj Vishkarma, the store Manager at an exclusive showroom for grooms in South Extension, New Delhi, “Our store has the Indo-western range exclusively for grooms, wherein we have a collection of designer suits and sherwani, kurta-churidar sets. Suits are formals with high collars and Jodhpuri patterns with full-sleeves shirts. 

These days the preference is towards sherwani-kurta-churidar along with a turban, stole and jutis, as they are exclusively worn by grooms while suits are more commonly used. There are many popular colours in the sherwani, such as golden, cream and beige. The fabric is brocade as it looks rich and festive. Some grooms go in for the ready-made collection while others choose the cloth and go in for customized tailoring. Stoles, jutis and a necklace can be teamed up, for that complete groom-look, depending on an individual's choice. Most of the time,The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. the groom comes to choose his attire with relatives and friends, so everybody advises something special, even though we also have our specialists in the field of wedding-wear. We have a collection in the range of Rs 25,000 onwards” 

Bride's pride 

As for the bride, she definitely wants to look her best. Many brides-to-be enroll themselves for special grooming and make-up classes while others go for the attractive bridal packages at beauty parlours. The preparations begin in advance. Facials, aromatic massages and skin treatments are very popular amongst new brides-to-be for that radiant glow on that special day. As far as dressing-up goes, a wide range of designer saris, georgette saris, crepes, handloom silks, designer anarkali suits, salwar suits and lehengas with trendy embellishments and embroidery are available in showrooms all over the bazaars of Delhi and Bangalore. 

Bina Verma, a school principal, is busy with the preparations of her daughter's wedding in January. She says, “The wedding malls these days offer everything under one roof, showcasing traditional, contemporary attires and jewellery. Since ours is a traditional wedding, we are buying heavy Banarasi zari wedding sari for our daughter. We have also bought many Kanchipuram silks, pure silk saris with threadwork, Pochampally, Samudrika pattu, Kubera pattu and vastrakala pattu as the work from south is inimitable. A lehenga choli, a few silk suit materials and the honey-moon night wear will complete the bride's trousseau. Matching jewellery and accessories like purses and bags are readily available in these wedding malls and attractive offers and packages make them affordable, suiting every budget.” 

So, exclusive Wedding Malls in Delhi and Bangalore promise stunningly beautiful bridal wear and a collection for grooms as well,A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions.The taffeta Rina di Montella 1520 with a strap of exquisite swarovski and pleating details in the chest part. offering a complete shopping experience. 

Wedding shopping is no longer a chore as one could walk into a Wedding Mall that can give you a sensational and enthralling shopping experience! Mesmerize yourself with carefully crafted dresses and accessories. Indulge in a shopping spree, visit a Wedding Mall experience the eternal regalia, this wedding season!

JOHN and Elsa Sganzerla are living proof that hand holding is not confined to young love. 

The couple,The faux fur wraps with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest.The zuhair murad collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. who are often spotted hand-in-hand in their hometown of Babinda, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary with friends and family today. 

Mr Sganzerla, known as "Papa John" to many locals, jokes a "man needs a medal" for staying married so long but it is clear he knew there was only one woman for him after he spotted his future wife walking past his workplace in the town during World War II. 

"I've still got her. I've never looked at anyone else," the 93-year-old said. 

Their first date was at a carnival where they drove dodgem cars together, and after collecting enough war-time coupons for catering and material for a wedding dress,The taffeta Rina di Montella 1520 with a strap of exquisite swarovski and pleating details in the chest part. they married on January 5, 1943. 

Since then, they have had three children, who have given them seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

Mrs Sganzerla, 91, said there was no single secret to a long and happy marriage. 

"We lived a normal, quiet life,After compare the wedding dresses from china Plus Size on all the online stores ." she said. 

"We've never been on a holiday just one of us. It's been a happy marriage right through. I couldn't wish for anything better." 

Mr Sganzerla said the key was to "behave", and the pair, who both migrated to Australia from Italy as children, never argued. 

Mrs Sganzerla still makes her husband his pumpkin gnocchi every Sunday at their family home, which they have lived in for more than 60 years. 

They retired about 20 years ago, passing on their mechanic business and farm to their sons Paul and David to run. 
Daughter Denise Irwin also lives in Babinda and said her parents' love was inspirational. 

"They are still like a couple of lovebirds after all these years," she said. 

Granddaughter Bronya Ghidella said the pair "do everything together".A chapel train gown is the most formal female attire for social occasions. 

"They still hold hands," she said.

Joyce Doherty sees an opening in the bridal industry, and she's going after it. 

The owner of Precious Memories Inc. is relocating the Malden bridal salon to a new location that's more than four times larger and opens tomorrow. 

“In New England, we no longer have a focal point,” Doherty said. “Yolanda's is no longer open,Light up a room in this pageant dress evening gown. Priscilla of Boston is no longer open, and we're going for it. We're opening this beautiful 10,000-square-foot space, and it's going to be fabulous.” 

Precious Memories is moving about 1.5 miles from its current 2,200-square-foot Ferry Street location of 22 years to 1256 Eastern Ave. 

“We took over this old nasty warehouse in an industrial park,” she said. “It took us over a year, but we converted into a high-end, beautiful bridal salon with a custom-designed floor plan to specifically meet the needs of brides and their bridesmaids.” 

The new salon features six suites for brides-to-be to try on dresses. Doherty is adding new lines and hopes to triple the number of wedding gowns that Precious Memories sells annually. She's also adding prom gowns and tuxedoes, which couldn't be accommodated in the current location, a three-story tenement with no parking. 

“We're just squeezing right out of it,” Doherty said. “Most of the time, we're totally booked and, by Wednesdays,This Asymmetric neckline dress features in great Taffeta. we've had to refuse appointments.” 

With a few scrappy chairs on the stage and choreographically challenged dancers leaping about her, PS was amazed that technicians were still fine-tuning the video screens just minutes before she hit her first note, while her husband, Nick Cannon, performed a DJ session that was more akin to listening to a radio countdown show,Shop wholesale formal office dresses for women from cheap corset and tulle wedding dresses wholesalers on DHgate and get worldwide delivery. complete with cringe-worthy narrative. 

Having won over her audience on the Gold Coast on New Year's Day after having her twins, Monroe and Moroccan, appear on stage, Carey barely broke a bead of sweat in Sydney. 

Instead she chose to slowly sashay about the stage in high heels which she appeared to have trouble walking in, offering the occasional twinkle of her fingers to the crowd. 

With four costume changes, her movements were further restricted by the tight-fitting dresses she came out in, though she did manage to pull off her trademark vocal gymnastics, including her famous ''dolphin squeak'' in the 1990s hit Emotions. Her fans loved it. 

But less impressive were the long and inexplicable off-stage breaks, which had punters in the bleachers audibly shouting: ''Where's Mariah gone?'' 

She jetted out of Sydney soon after the show aboard a private jet, with husband and twins in tow,Online shopping for custom made designer affordable one shoulder wedding dresses. bound for Melbourne. 

While her most loyal supporters took to smh.com.au yesterday to barrack for the star after critic Rachel Olding gave a scathing review, even some of the die-hard fans admitted the show was disappointing. 

One had paid $400 for the Mariah Carey ''Fantasy Package'',Both the 2010 and 2011 Miss Americas were crowned in La Femme dress made by Sherri Hill. which ''included a program and a lanyard. RIP-OFF!!''

JOHN and Elsa Sganzerla are living proof that hand holding is not confined to young love. 

The couple, who are often spotted hand-in-hand in their hometown of Babinda, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary with friends and family today. 

Mr Sganzerla, known as "Papa John" to many locals, jokes a "man needs a medal" for staying married so long but it is clear he knew there was only one woman for him after he spotted his future wife walking past his workplace in the town during World War II. 

"I've still got her. I've never looked at anyone else," the 93-year-old said. 

Their first date was at a carnival where they drove dodgem cars together, and after collecting enough war-time coupons for catering and material for a wedding dress, they married on January 5, 1943. 

Since then, they have had three children, who have given them seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

Mrs Sganzerla, 91, said there was no single secret to a long and happy marriage.One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the lace wedding veils. 

"We lived a normal, quiet life,Buy 2013 wedding dress and other prom gowns at this site." she said. 

"We've never been on a holiday just one of us. It's been a happy marriage right through. I couldn't wish for anything better." 

Mr Sganzerla said the key was to "behave", and the pair,Shop wholesale formal office dresses for women from cheap corset and tulle wedding dresses wholesalers on DHgate and get worldwide delivery. who both migrated to Australia from Italy as children,Find the perfect Junior Bridesmaid Dresses to wear. never argued. 

Mrs Sganzerla still makes her husband his pumpkin gnocchi every Sunday at their family home, which they have lived in for more than 60 years. 

They retired about 20 years ago, passing on their mechanic business and farm to their sons Paul and David to run. 
Daughter Denise Irwin also lives in Babinda and said her parents' love was inspirational.This strapless satin dress has Pick-up gown. 

"They are still like a couple of lovebirds after all these years," she said. 

Granddaughter Bronya Ghidella said the pair "do everything together". 

"They still hold hands," she said.

This past summer, at the venerable and (mostly) sensible age of 60, I found myself getting married for the third time. Each of my three weddings has been distinctive, and wonderful in its way. But while there have been plenty of pre-wedding jitters, heartfelt promises, champagne, cake, and flowers, there has been no white lace on any of these occasions,Light up a room in this pageant dress evening gown. and no bride either; for I am a gay man, and in all three ceremonies I have married the same wonderful guy. 

A little background here. Growing up in New Jersey in the 1950s, and realizing quite early that I was gay, I never expected to marry at all, let alone three times. Marriage just wasn't an option for gay people in that time and place. In the mid-1970s, when I met my first love, Jay, we knew we wanted to spend our lives together, and we did exactly that. We lived in Manhattan and Washington, DC as a committed couple -- and best friends -- for 17 years, until his death in 1993. That loss, although we had expected it for some time,Online shopping for custom made designer affordable one shoulder wedding dresses. shattered me. For months I could only mourn him; it seemed inconceivable that life could go on after such a blow. 

Rubbing salt into the deep wounds of that period, it turned out that despite our many years together, Jay and I had none of the protections under New York law that any heterosexual couple would have had. The property we had accumulated together could not simply become mine; it was taxed as though Jay had left it to a stranger. My accountant let me know that I would have to sell most of it just to pay off the brutal estate taxes. 

Fast forward to 1994, ten months to the day after Jay's death. I had wandered to the Upper West Side to watch some of the events in that year's Gay Games, and had got swept into one of the parties that followed such events. And there was Rik: tall, blond, wonderfully athletic, with a warm, easy smile -- and Dutch. (He was running with the Dutch track and field team.) More than 18 years later, we both still recall that moment as love at first sight. 

I'll go pretty far for a good date, so when he invited me to Amsterdam I didn't say no. Four months later I relocated to Holland for good. It was a big move. I am a lawyer, and was solidly established in my profession. I gave up my job, my useful professional knowledge, a wide circle of friends, my apartment in Manhattan, and even the home Jay and I had rebuilt together near Sag Harbor, Long Island. I had to learn to speak Dutch and to adapt to a very different country. 

But I didn't really expect that move to be permanent. I assumed America would eventually let me sponsor Rik for a green card, and we could move back. But in 1996, Congress passed a particularly nasty thing called the Defense of Marriage Act,Looking for new collection of wedding dresses or designer beaded evening gowns? which forbids the government from acknowledging any same sex relationship. In effect, Rik was now officially barred. No way we could return. Despite our love, life was turning a little sour. 

Many people have their politicizing moments: that was mine. 

Fortunately, the Netherlands is much friendlier to its gay citizens -- and their partners -- than the U.S. is. Same-sex partner migration opened up there in the 1970s. So getting a visa so that I could live there with Rik was no problem at all. 

Wedding One 
In 1998, the Netherlands made it legal for same-sex couples to sign up for "civil registration." Essentially,We have a huge selection of 2013 evening dressfor you to choose from. this designation conferred all the same rights as marriage. Rik and I grabbed the chance. And assuming that this would be the only wedding we would ever have, we decided to do it up right. We invited all our close friends and family members, many of whom flew in from the United States, while others gathered from all across Europe. My mother, my sister Joan, my cousin Alice, my old friend Paul from Washington were there, as well as Rik's parents, his brother and sister-in-law, and our many friends. Among them was my boss, the MD of the company I worked for, who entered our house that morning carrying a burning candle in a beautiful candle holder, to say, "today is a day of light and joy." 

I confess, until the morning of that first wedding, I hadn't understood what marriage meant. I vaguely assumed we were giving a sort of theme party, and the theme was "wedding." But when the great day arrived I realized viscerally how significant this would be. In fact, I became more than nervous. I just lost it. I was unable to speak. I remember offering one guest before the ceremony "a cup of cake or a piece of coffee." At that moment, I realized I would just have to float through the day hoping I could manage. 

It was indeed a day of light and joy. We married in the central hall of a grand house -- called "the House of the Heads" for the row of carved stone heads on its facade -- on a beautiful canal in Amsterdam. That house had the distinction of serving as the headquarters of the Amsterdam Monuments Commission. Oddly enough, on the wall of the broad hall where our wedding took place hangs a large 17th century portrait of "The Regents," early mayors (burgemeesters) of Amsterdam, sitting around a wooden table wearing black suits and large frilly white Dutch collars from that period. The painting gives the impression that the men are looking out on the room. Their eyes follow you. I glanced up during the ceremony and thought: "I'll bet those guys never expected to see THIS kind of wedding in their fair city." 

Rik and I wore grey morning suits with tails -- as did, purely by chance, the tall, blond city official who conducted the ceremony. The three of us could have been taken for triplets; a stranger couldn't have told us apart. 

I remember being beyond nervous. I felt literally unable to speak. My Dutch was still poor in those days, and I had practiced my little speech for days, but was suddenly unsure whether I would be able to deliver it at all. But there was Rik, holding my hands, steady as a rock, as always. And so I managed to make the traditional vows, in both Dutch and English, from the heart: "To have and to hold....till death do us part." 

For my friends and family to have flown in all the way from America to hear us make those vows meant a huge amount to me. For me, the spiritual impact of marriage comes from its public declaration, to the effect: "We are a couple. Please recognize and support us now." And all those people had come there just for us, and were committed to doing that very thing. It was incredibly moving. 

After the ceremony, we had planned to serve wedding cake and champagne in the beautiful city garden behind the house.Shop high neck wedding dresses gowns from cheap bridal dress china . We had ordered an elaborately elegant vanilla champagne mousse wedding cake topped with two men in tuxedos, which had been delivered as promised earlier in the day. The music too was going to be very special: we had hired the carillonist of the Westerkerk (Western Church, whose tower Ann Frank was able to see from her house, and which she mentions in her diary) to ring the church tower bells, playing songs we had chosen specially, including "Tulips from Amsterdam" and a few other local classics. 

This was before cell phones. So the drill was that our Master of Ceremonies (our good friend Menne) would wave a white handkerchief that the carillonist could see when it was time to start the music. So there we were, Rik and me and some 40 guests, lined up in the garden waiting for cake and flutes of champagne. And Menne waved his handkerchief. 

At which point the heavens opened up and the rain came pouring down in buckets. We all rushed inside, scrambling to save the remnants of the cake. We never did get to hear the music, alas. But we did enjoy the champagne and cake. And shortly afterward the skies cleared. So, only slightly damp, the entire party strolled outside and boarded one of Amsterdam's beautiful canal boats, on which we sailed regally through the canals, with people waving from the banks and all of us waving back, on our way to a brilliant lunch. 

Despite the rain, it was a perfect wedding. Reciting our vows in the presence of family, friends, and colleagues had transformative power. 

It's an amazing thing, a wedding: two become one. I hadn't understood that before. Now I do and I think it's terrific.

TWO brides could have more to worry about than catering and flower arrangements if their white wedding dresses are not returned before their big days. 
A motorist travelling on Green Street, Wooroloo, on December 22 made the strange discovery of two wedding dresses wrapped up in a black doona on the side of the road. 

The dresses were handed to Mundaring Police, who would like to return them to their owners. 

Senior Sergeant John Browne said it was an unusual item to find by the road. 

“They have not been claimed,” he said. 

“We are not sure where they came from… there have been no reports of stolen wedding dresses in the area.” 

We've all heard stories about Father of the Bride, but no one ever told a story about Mother of the Groom. 

Until now -- and I'm going to tell you my story of the day my first born 

son,Both the 2010 and 2011 Miss Americas were crowned in La Femme dress made by Sherri Hill. Steve, was married. 

When Steve and Melanie wanted to marry, they came to us to tell us their news. We were delighted. 

From the first day we met Melanie, we just knew she was THE girl for Steve. And, we were so pleased hey wanted to be married in the family home place, The Jefferson House. 

It was the dead of winter, January. We had just finished restoring the home place. We invited our family and friends. We borrowed chairs from the church and had them arranged in a circle in the living room. 

Melanie had a bouquet of flowers for them all that she would give them. 

I had greenery, ribbons and candles on the stair case that Melanie would walk down, just as my mother did many years ago. 

The table in the dining room was adorned with a linen table cloth, mirror tiles, greenery and candles around the punch bowl. The leaded glass windows over the buffet filled with food looked lovely. 

January 12th, the snow started falling. It snowed ALL night long. About 5:00 in the morning the phone started ringing. All the family and friends could not come. It was a blizzard! 

January 13th, 1979. It was a winter wonderland. A sight to behold. Do you think anything like a blizzard could keep our happy couple from getting married? Well, maybe. Melanie forget her shoes that matched the beautiful wedding dress she had designed and made. 

I found her upstairs just moments away from the wedding vows, crying. 

"I don't have my shoes!" I told her,What exactly is a cheap demetrios wedding dresses made in china? "don't worry Dick will go and get them for you." 

"Oh! No! The weather is too bad." 

So, I took off my shoes and gave them to her, "Wear mine." 

I put my snow boots back on. Who cared what kind of shoes the mother of the groom had on? 

All we cared about was that beautiful girl who was to become a member of our family wearing her beautiful dress and my shoes. 

OK, you have heard, I'll give the shirt off my back? I gave my new beloved daughter/friend the shoes off my feet. And, I'd do it all over again. 

So, my husband, the father of the groom, put chains on the car, picked up the minister, Reverend Arnold Burns, my Mother, our son,The zuhair murad collection offers a truly unique line of dresses. Rick, and the ceremony began. 

Melanie, walking down the stairs, was a beautiful bride. My son, Steve, waiting at the foot of the stairs for her, my baby boy, was just beaming with happiness. 

For all of you mothers of the groom, you know the emotions that run through your mind. There he is, that baby boy, without a doubt the most beautiful baby ever born, and you held him in your arms, who you knew would be the best friend you ever had. And, to this day, he is my best friend. 

That son you watched go off to first grade, that kid you laughed and had so much fun with all those growing up years. 

And before you knew it that young man you watched grow up go to college. Now, to become a married man. 

I sat there listening to my son promise to love and honor Melanie all the days of his life and you know what? 

Thirty-four years later they are still the sweethearts they were on that day of the blizzard. 

On the buffet,his elegant selection of high low prom dresses will have you looking stunning for the big day! there was enough food for 25 people. It went to the freezer as the thing we all enjoyed the most with our glasses of champage raised in a toast for life long happiness. 

MMMM, the champagne was so good we were filled with happiness, or was it living in a winter wonderland? 

And, they all lived happily ever after in spite of being married in a blizzard. 

A dream come true for every mother of sons. A wife who loves your son as much as you do. 

Let it snow,Looking for new collection of wedding dresses or designer beaded evening gowns? let it snow, but the fire is so delightful and I have my love to keep me warm.

The teenagers tottering in their Louboutins through a refugee camp in Somalia say they've never been happier. 

"We're going to donate all of our handbags to this worthy cause,china wholesale bridesmaid dresses" Kendall says. 

"You should see the sacks these people carry around. They're not even leather.Sweetheart neckline dress It's a crime against humanity!" 

Now, that's a reality series I'd pay to see. Of course, it's not going to happen. 

Instead our eyes are soiled by the sight of these spoilt girls bragging about their booty on Christmas Day. 

Instead, on this holy day, we're treated to scenes of the seven deadly sins: greed, lust, avarice, sloth, envy, pride, and gluttony. 

Fifteen-year-old Kylie (youngest half-sister of Kim Kardashian) posts Instagram snaps of two Celine bags under the tree, worth more than $3000 each. Her 17-year-old sister, Kendall _ who received a $90,000 Range Rover for her birthday last year _ opens a box containing a $1200 pair of spiked patent leather shoes. 

These shots are accompanied by pouting poses,bridal gown wedding dress wearing matching Alexander McQueen dresses. Many are inappropriately sexual. These aren't happy snaps of carefree teenagers; they're poses aimed at an invisible paparazzi. 

Now, I don't begrudge them frocking up. It's a special day. Nor do I hate the rich. If they've saved up for those expensive gifts, good on them. But I do cringe at the message this sends to young women: life is all about money, beauty and fame. 

The way "mumager" (mum and manager) Kris Jenner raises these girls is questionable, in my opinion. She and her second husband, Bruce Jenner, allowed Kendall and Kylie to leave school last year to pursue their modelling careers. 

Who needs an education to fall back on, anyway? 

Kylie already has a burgeoning career as a nail polish designer,ball gown with the range "Wear Something Spar-kylie" and "Rainbow in the S-kylie". Kendall is a style ambassador for Seventeen magazine. 

Meanwhile, they're penning their first novel (with the help of a co-writer) for a young-adult audience. 

No doubt, they'll follow in the footsteps of their half-sisters (Kim, Khloe and Kourtney) and mum, who lay their lives bare for all to see. 

In her book, Kris Jenner And All Things Kardashian, she writes about her long affair with a younger, married man while married to her late first husband, Robert.Rina di Montella 

Then, in their reality show, she plays on her daughter Khloe's insecurities, encouraging her to have a DNA test.

TWO style queens have scooped the fashion stakes on their first ever visit to the Limerick Races. 

Michelle Lenahan celebrated her 25th birthday in style after winning the 'Best Tressed' prize at the Christmas Racing Festival at the Patrickswell course. 

A banker at IBRC, Michelle looked a million dollars in her belted, plaid 'Jesire' coat borrowed from her aunt. 

She hadn't spent a fortune on her outfit, she said, with her red ankle boots from Dunnes Stores, handbag from Penneys, and a rented hat. But it was Michelle's mane of shiny, shoulder-length chestnut hair, coloured at Peter Mark in Dublin's St Stephen's Green, that won her gold on the day.Lace dress 

Michelle's decision to get a blow-dry at the local Bellisimo hair salon that morning paid off handsomely. She ended up winning a year's supply of shampoo from Herbal Essences, who sponsored the 'Best Tressed' prize. It also includes a VIP appointment with celebrity hair stylist Dylan Bradshaw. 

Like Michelle, yesterday was Muriel Callaghan's first visit to the Limerick Races and she couldn't have been more surprised when she was named winner of the overall 'Best Dressed' prize. 

An orthopaedic nurse who is well used to treating injured jockeys at Blanchardstown Hospital,china wholesale bridesmaid dresses Muriel was spotted by the judges in the stand with her fiancee Alan O'Sullivan from Tralee. 

Her winter white ensemble was both sophisticated and practical, ideal for watching the racing outdoors and later as she collected her prize in the Greenmount suite. 

Muriel, who originally comes from Ballinalee, Co Longford, and now lives in Clonsilla, Dublin, wore a Zara coat over a Diva dress. 

Her hat was by Irish brand Michael H, her shoes were from Harvey Nicks and bag from River Island.Rina di Montella 

The prize of a pampering spa weekend for four in a suite at the Strand Hotel in Limerick will come in handy before her upcoming wedding celebrations in Leixlip,wedding dresses made in china wholesale Co Kildare,bridal gown wedding dress next May, she said. 

The family have made a Christmas Eve visit to the pantomime a tradition, and come to the show every year. 

The bride's mother, Lynn Goldsmith, said, “Victoria always wanted a Christmas Eve wedding, it's been hectic but wonderful, even yesterday she was making mince pies with the boys as that's what they always do at Christmas.” 

After the show the family spent the afternoon together followed by an evening reception. 

Eastbourne Theatres artistic director Chris Jordan, who also wrote and directed the pantomime, said, “We are delighted that the Rogers family decided to celebrate their first few hours of married life with us here at the Devonshire Park Theatre. 

“Pantomime is always a magical occasion and we are delighted that it has formed such a big part of their family life, especially on the most special day of their lives!

THE spate of year-end weddings ensures no escapes from marriage, both as a theme and as a template for life. 

While waiting for dinner to be served at a wedding earlier this month,china wholesale bridesmaid dresses I unexpectedly found myself facing a microphone; with a hungry audience expecting advice on marriage. In my attempt at tongue-in-cheek yet pithy wisdom, I addressed the young bride and groom, “You do know” – pregnant pause – “that the best thing about marriage is the wedding. After that it all goes downhill.” 

I added, for good measure, that “the best marriages are made of compromises and ... separate bathrooms!” The room remained silent and my joke fell flat. Perhaps tongue-in-cheek doesn't play at modern weddings. 

Yet, in an age where divorce and separation are rife, you'd think that humour would help newly-weds traverse a path riddled with surprises, both good and bad. Even as they continue to seal their nuptials with long religious ceremonies, drawn-out dinners for hundreds of people, and the same old meringue-style wedding gowns. 

It is only after the champagne corks pop and the honeymoon laundry is done that the real job begins. There is no doubt that marriage takes a lot of work and foresight. 

The morning before the pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart married her publicist in 1931, she wrote him a resolute letter stating exactly what she did and didn't want in their marriage. Her reluctance to marry, even after he had proposed six times, derived from her perceived impact of the act of marriage. 

It was her work that meant the most to her. Her independent spirit and forthright nature were further spelled out via caveats on careers, fidelity and honesty. She also wrote that she would need to keep a place where she could go to be herself. Moreover, she extracted a promise from her husband-to-be that he would let her go within a year if they found no happiness together. As it turned out, they were together for six years before her tragic 1937 disappearance. 

At a recent school reunion, among company where most have been married for more than a decade (with a couple on to their second marriage), I decided to broach this subject. The variety of opinions at the dinner was certainly surprising, adding much figurative food for thought. 

MK,bridal gown wedding dress who wed a month after meeting his wife of 15 years, is not ashamed to admit that he enjoys his marriage. “Although marriage is an old-fashioned institution, it demands the respect it deserves.” He says the bond created by his union with his wife, children, in-laws and extended family make up a community in which he thrives. “This is what makes society,” he states, revelling in the incomparable companionship that his wife offers.wedding dresses made in china wholesale

Then there's the friend of a friend, who has been divorced for seven years after a 12-year marriage. He and his then wife,Floral gown he admits, had not only grown apart but were also growing in separate ways. 

“Marriage must be a symbiotic relationship,” he claims, citing the last line of Khalil Gibran's poem, On Marriage, as the ultimate rationale: “And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.” 

He fears he married too early and, like many others, including his mother and sister, stayed too long in the marriage. And not for the right reasons. 

“People should only stay in this archaic institution when both parties really want to. And only when your partner completes you and not because of a myriad other reasons like children,Lace dress home.”

Finding a good wedding planner is one of the keys to a perfect wedding day. And luckily, it is a booming industry in Shanghai. It's thanks to these wedding planners that the only thing couples need to take care of is the actual wedding date and their budget. 

French-born Johane Ohana, founder of Ringed Forever, decided to become a wedding planner four years ago after helping to organize her sister's wedding. "I enjoyed every single minute of it and I love meeting new people," she told the Global Times. 

Initially, Ohana's goal was to target Chinese clients, but to date all of her clientele have been expats in the city. "Historically, Chinese parents help their children organize their special day but now I feel like they are starting to move away from traditional Chinese weddings.Largest selection of V-neckline dress available in all colors, sizes, fabrics. They are usually not much fun and I would like to offer them that option," she said. 

Ohana advertises her wedding services as "bringing the French touch and sophistication to Chinese weddings." 

Ariel Leanne Chen, who is originally from Canada, has been running her wedding business company in Shanghai for five and a half years, and a few months back she opened a second office in Guangzhou. Before launching her own firm, she worked for more than five years in marketing and advertising. "I never thought about becoming a wedding planner before I came to China," said Chen. "I guess the reason I became one is because I didn't like Chinese-style weddings so much." 

Both women said plans for a wedding usually start six months to one year ahead of the big day. "I meet with the couples once a month to discuss how everything is going," said Ohana. "I look for the venue and I take care of the invitations and the color themes. The excitement is only for the couple. I need to keep calm and make sure their wedding day goes to plan. And because of that, I never take on more than one client a month. I want to be there for the bride and I need to make sure I am not making any mistakes," she added. 

Chen said that her clients are split roughly 50 percent between locals and foreigners. "It is funny to see that my Western clients are often fascinated with traditional Chinese weddings and want one themselves, while Chinese couples opt for a Western-style wedding with a white dress," said Chen. 

Chen also organizes "destination weddings," with Bali currently being the most popular choice. She works with around 30 couples each year. "We help our clients with the compering, flowers, photographers, shooting the video, the cake,One of the hottest bridal dress trends in 2012 is the one shoulder wedding dresses. the invitations, and the reception," she said. "The only things that the couples need to take care of are the rings and the bridal dress. Working as a wedding planner is a really exciting job as I can witness so many great things." 

One of the funniest weddings Chen witnessed was when the couple requested all the staff at the ceremony to wear Playboy bunny costumes. 
The Wedding Co. was started in 2009.Motel Deborah Long Sleeve mandarin collar dress in Black. Andrew Cheng, who is the company's marketing director, had experience in the wedding industry previously when he worked for a bridal magazine in the US. His wife, Jackie Cheng, who takes care of the creative side of the company, worked in the wedding industry in New Zealand before moving to Shanghai. 

"Our customers are half local and half expats," said Cheng. "And most of our couples are a foreign man and a Chinese woman. Our experience, and the fact that many of our staff are fluent in English, Putonghua and Cantonese make us a perfect choice for mixed Chinese and Western couples as it takes time and experience to explain traditions and the wedding customs of both cultures. We mainly specialize in American-style weddings but we like to touch on aspects of both the bride and groom's cultures." 

Cheng said they usually organize 40 to 50 weddings a year, and the minimum time needed to prepare is six months.Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1519 Collection Dresses. However, she recalls that one couple gave them just five days to arrange their wedding day. "It was very stressful, and we slept just three to five hours on each of those days, but we finally pulled it together," said Jackie Cheng. 

"The most popular months for weddings are May and October because of the weather," said Andrew Cheng. The average cost for the weddings the companies plan is between 100,000 yuan ($16,033) and 200,000 yuan.Shop PromGirl for high low prom dresses and pageant gowns with high low hemlines. 

"Weddings are very stressful both for us and for the couple but we are there for the couple at every step of the planning process to make sure it is the best day of their lives," he added. 

All three of the companies agreed that planning a wedding is perhaps one of the most stressful jobs there is. "But it is just an organization for a party, after all, and that is what I enjoy doing," said Ohana.

Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio regrets splashing out on a Dolce & Gabbana dress because she thinks it looks too much like a wedding gown to ever wear in public. 

Alessandra Ambrosio regrets splashing out on a Dolce & Gabbana dress. 

The Victoria's Secret model bought a couture gown from the designers but thinks it looks too much like a wedding gown to ever wear in public.Free Shipping Quality Guaranteed Designer Rina di Montella 1519 Collection Dresses. 

She explained: "I bought this couture Dolce & Gabbana dress and I never wear it. It was an amazing dress but after I bought it I realised it kind of looks like a wedding dress." 

The Victoria's Secret model also revealed she loves heeled sneakers, saying: "Right now I am really into heeled sneakers. I think they are cool, comfy and they lift you up a little bit.Shop wholesale Bridal gown from cheap corset and tulle wedding dresses wholesalers on DHgate and get worldwide delivery. I also want over-the-knee boots, black leather." 

While she has many clothes of her own, Alessandra recently revealed her style icon is Kate Moss and would love to "raid the closet" of the British supermodel as she adores everything she wears.Shop PromGirl for high low prom dresses and pageant gowns with high low hemlines. 

She said: "I wish I could raid the closet of Kate Moss. She has such amazing style and clothes." 

Well, this is simply wonderful -- Leonardo DiCaprio reportedly walked Kate Winslet down the aisle during her secret wedding to Ned Rocknroll.We offer a wide array of cheap lace wedding veils, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. 

A source told Us Weekly that the bride's longtime friend and co-star in "Titanic" and "Revolutionary Road" had the honor of giving her away at her wedding earlier this month. 

Winslet's rep confirmed the secret wedding ceremony, telling People magazine: 

"I can confirm that Kate Winslet married Ned Rock'nRoll in NY earlier this month in a private ceremony attended by her two children and a very few friends and family. The couple had been engaged since the summer." 

However, reps have not yet confirmed reports that DiCaprio walked Winslet down the aisle. When reached for comment, a rep for DiCaprio would not confirm or deny that the actor was at Winslet and Rocknroll's wedding. 

This is the third marriage for Winslet,Largest selection of V-neckline dress available in all colors, sizes, fabrics. who was previously married to Jim Threapleton from 1998 to 2001, and to director Sam Mendes from 2003 to 2010.

The presenter-turned-actress loved her bespoke wedding dress from her September wedding in Italy so much,Lace chapel train gown, it's time to bring sexy back with this dress befitting of a full-fledged femme fatale. that she's already worn it three times. 

She got hitched in September in a lavish Tuscan wedding to banker Daithi O Caoimh. Caroline (35) wore a spectacular Kathy de Stafford gown when she marched up the aisle at Santa Maria do Provenzano church in medieval Siena. 

Despite having a train of more than 35 metres Caroline has donned the beautiful bridal gown several times since. 

“I've worn it three times now,” Caroline told the Evening Herald.See all the looks from the zuhair murad Haute Couture autumn/winter 2012 collection. 

“I wore it on the wedding day and the day after the wedding. We were leaving the hotel and had decided to grab something to eat in this tiny little restaurant with loads of beautiful Tuscan food. And as we made our way to the restaurant, there was this beautiful light and the photographer, said: ‘Oh my God, get in to your dress now!' 

“We hadn't spent that much time on the wedding day taking photos,” Caroline said. “So I stuck the wedding dress back on and we took loads of photos and then we just thought, ‘Why don't we go to dinner like this?' |So we went to the restaurant in all our |finery. They nearly had a heart attack when we arrived. 

“I recently threw another party back in LA where everyone had to wear a wedding dress or dress as either a bridesmaid,Time to find a beautiful formal dresses evening? or a priest, or a cake.If you still do not have an awesome 2013 evening dress. We had a dozen brides and I wore my dress again. We were dancing in the street and Hollywood Boulevard didn't know what had hit it.” 

Caroline and Daithi are both based in Los Angeles; Daithi quit his finance job in Dublin to join Caroline after she moved to pursue an acting career. 

While it's “ferociously competitive”, Caroline insisted that she is not ready to give up on her Hollywood dream. 

“It's completely daunting because over in LA there are opportunities everywhere,The Off the Shoulder cocktail dresses with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. but there are 10,000 people touching down in LAX every day with the same goal,” Caroline said. “I've been doing film for the most part but I go out for all of it and whatever sticks, sticks.” 

Caroline has just starred in short film I Can't See You, which premiered at the Cork Film Festival. 

She said she is a big fan of RTE gangland drama Love/Hate and would love a part in the series. “I think it's great. I think it's totally realistic, it's almost like a documentary and I think the standard of acting is phenomenal. A part in it would be great but I have no plans to move back to Ireland permanently.”

Shoppers angled for parking spaces and deals on Worth Avenue Wednesday as merchants characterized Christmas season sales as moderate to “very strong.” 

“It's kind of strange. we've had the best November we ever had,” designer Alfred Fiandaca said. “I don't have all the figures for December. But I don't think it's stellar.” 

Fiandaca said gowns are selling “very well.” Ann Romney wore a number of Fiandaca dresses on the campaign trail this fall with her husband, Mitt, then the Republican presidential candidate. The designer has in his store an album of photographs showing Ann Romney wearing his creations. 

“We have this red shirt dress that seems to be selling a great deal. I think part of it is Mrs. Romney wore it so often and it was in the press so often,” Fiandaca said. “Most women like that they can throw it into a carry-on bag, then you could throw it into the washing machine and it comes out exactly the same.The a-line dress  captures the essence of simple chic.” 

John Maus, owner of Maus & Hoffman, reported positive activity. 

“Christmas season has been very strong,” Maus said. What's selling are “sports wear,If you still do not have an awesome 2013 evening dress. sports coats, cotton slacks — typical, standard fare.” He said he is just waiting for Friday, when temperatures are expected to dip again. 

“The cold weather just turns lights on, makes the registers ring,” Maus said. “When the temperature changes, people change their minds about what they are going to wear.” 

Robert Kassatly, co-owner of Kassatly's, said his business has been brisk. 

“We've always been busy because we have items for giving — nightgowns, robes, handkerchiefs,” Kassatly said. “There's nothing in there that couldn't be easily gifted.” 

He and family members are busy selling those items and more. 

“We've got a great value on a cashmere sweater that's made in Scotland, not China,” Kassatly said. The sweater sells for $395, he said. 

Kassatly said traffic and sales have been good. 

“I basically say we couldn't have been busier. How much can you do?” 

Peter Schuette, general manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, said his store had seen “very brisk traffic” on Wednesday.Shop PromGirl for high low prom dresses and pageant gowns with high low hemlines. 

“There was a crowd at the doors this morning, I'd say about 20-25 people were at the doors waiting at 8 o'clock, so we actually opened 10 minutes early to get them into the building,” Schuette said. 

“Everybody loves a great sale — 50 percent off all the hard marks, and men's is 60 percent off, until just about now,” Schuette said a few minutes before noon. “We've got to go out and change the signs shortly.” 

The store has a “tremendous sale” on Reed Krafoff bags, he said. 

“In terms of women's items per se — cashmere sweaters are always a great gift-giving item and our new resort deliveries that are arriving are doing well,” Schuette said.Both the 2010 and 2011 Miss Americas were crowned in pageant dress made by Sherri Hill. 

For men, popular gifts include fragrance sets, cashmere sweaters and formal wear. The latter complements ladies' evening wear, he said.Where is your designer beaded evening gowns? “That's going strong as well.”

Pamela Geller of the hate groups AFDI/SIOA has found yet another example of those devious Muslims attempting to sneak their Sharia compliant, evil customs under the radar of decent folks. 

Geller is upset about an article by Seunghee Suh in the WSJ, How to Make the Hijab Hip which discusses Shaz Kaiseruddin who has created “The American Hijab Design Contest” in the hope of building a following for a fashion trend she calls “covered chic.” Here is that shocking article: 

.Both the 2010 and 2011 Miss Americas were crowned in pageant dress made by Sherri Hill... “The scope of covered chic fashion far exceeds the Muslim population,” says Shaz Kaiseruddin, 31, a human rights attorney based in Chicago and the creator of the contest.The a-line dress  captures the essence of simple chic. “A hijab is as American as blue jeans.” 

Kaiseruddin hopes to build support for an “American hijab,” a headscarf that can have as many styles in a nation as diverse as America. And she hopes to shake up the belief that the hijab, and Muslims, are foreign to America, and show that headscarves are fashion accessories anyone—regardless of faith—can play with in their wardrobes. 

Nzinga Knight, an American fashion designer and a practicing Muslim, agrees. “The notion of covering the hair because of religion is so ancient,” she says. Knight, who presented her spring/summer 2013 collection at New York Fashion Week in September, is known for her modest, elegant clothes. Her collection features opulent gowns with long sleeves and flowing skirts. Matching headscarves complete the outfits. She says she designs for women “who respect their bodies and find modesty to be beautiful and glamorous.” “Our form of dressing is a way of communicating [modesty] to others,” says Knight. Women should reflect their beliefs in the ways they dress, she says. “I see dishonesty in women who dress provocatively, but say they want to be known for their brains.” 

Knight and Kaiseruddin agree that covering up is not a sign of oppression, but of freedom of choice. “Fashion can break down barriers and make the unfamiliar familiar,” says Kaiseruddin. “I'm confident that we, as a nation, will move towards a broader definition of what beauty looks like, a broader definition of what American fashion looks like, and a broader definition of what an American looks like.” 

Geller is not going to let such disgusting efforts by Muslims go unchallenged. After all, she is the West's “defender of freedom”, and any civilized person understands that the only way to protect America's freedom is to make sure Muslims don't get the idea that freedom also applies to them. She says about this article that this is ”Norming the sharia. More cultural jihad, now using fashion as the conduit to norming sharia. Trying to make the hideous fashionable, the hijab, niqab, etc as “covered chic.” A gorgeous inlaid wood coffin, that's covered chic too. Hijab, the new black! And who is shoving this agitprop down our throats, the Wall Street Journal. ...Where is your designer beaded evening gowns?” 

Perhaps she's on to something. This disgusting and savage concept of modesty exemplified by modest clothing and head coverings can't be allowed to be made to seem normal. Such deviant behavior could destroy the very fabric of America. Geller thinks this is “fashion jihad”. 

Geller has not noticed that it is not only Muslim women who are spreading such ideas and “trying to make the hideous fashionable”. 

Here is another recent article about another group making the same sort of effort. Oy! How Olivia Palermo became a style icon for Orthodox Jewish women by Olivia Fleming must have escaped Geller's radar for such things: 

“Orthodox Jewish women are taking fashion inspiration from style-star Olivia Palermo in an effort to shake-up their modest appearance. 

The socialite has become one of the most influential red-carpet celebrities for style-conscious Orthodox women, who must follow three core rules of modesty in how they dress. Looking to trend-setters like the 26-year-old for inspiration, Orthodox style blogger Sharon Langert told BuzzFeed: ‘Jewish Orthodox women are fashion savvy - they want to look up-to-date.' 

Orthodox Judaism requires both men and women to substantially cover their bodies, which has previously hindered the way modern Orthodox Jewish women would like to dress.If you still do not have an awesome 2013 evening dress. There are three main rules, or tznius, they must adhere to: shirt sleeves should cover elbows, the neckline should extend to the collarbone, and skirts must cover the knees,Shop PromGirl for high low prom dresses and pageant gowns with high low hemlines. with or without tights. Trousers are forbidden, and married women must cover their heads with a wig, scarf or hat. ... 

Appropriating the stars' glamorous, but conservative looks, Orthodox women are stepping away from their traditional garb, instead creating fashionable outfits that still adhere to their tznius. Not all Orthodox women allow fashion magazines in their homes, however, but many do follow trends, searching for style tips and inspiration on the increasing number of Orthodox fashion blogs like Mrs Langert's, called http://www.fashion-isha.com/2012/03/being-orthodox-jewish-woman-my-point-of.html Fashion Isha. ... 

Mrs. Langert who is mentioned in this article, has a statement on the front page of her fashion blog which includes these comments: 

“... Most people in the world don't understand the difference between ‘Hasidim', Yeshiva Jews, or the Modern Orthodox. Without getting into details and an entire theological discussion, I'll just say that, in my opinion, the main differences are based not only on the obvious exterior garb, but mostly the cultures of each sect, based on the traditions of their ancestors. But, in the end of the day we are all Jews. And we are highly misunderstood. 

So if I may be so bold, I'd like to share my personal opinion and point of view. Being an Orthodox Jewish woman is not in any way in conflict with being a relevent and accomplished woman in today's world. And this is the underlying message of my blog: Balance. Beauty. Spirituality. Physicality. All done in a refined and purposeful way. 

... But, never did I doubt the fact that G-d ran this beautiful world. All I had to do was look outside at the trees, the flowers, the gorgeous people…all different yet so much the same! And, in my humble upbringing, I was kindly and gently raised with the belief that He gave us a set of rules that were really for our own good. And just like we would be considered really crappy parents if we let our kids do whatever they wanted whenever they wanted…stay up all night, eat candy all day.. G-d gave us rules to keep us sane and happy, whether we understood or liked it or not. 

So I strove to find the BALANCE in it all. Because we are spiritual beings in a physical world and extremism isn't healthy. We all have passions, dreams and desires and I promise you you can achieve them. And especially coming from me, an Orthodox Jewish wife and mother, who follows the rules of modesty and loves fashion, glamour and fun, I am telling you that you CAN find the right balance. Channel what you love in the proper way. Use your talents to better this world and yourself. ... 


It's no problem to replace observant Muslim woman with Orthodox Jewish woman, as these same sentiments are being echoed by both groups in America. And, just like the American Muslim community, the American Jewish community also has specialty shops selling high fashion modest clothing.

In the quest for a perfect reception treat, some common questions always arise–such as what size dessert will be most appropriate and which flavor will be most appreciated by guests. Leigh Growney, owner of The Short Giraffe Mini Confections and Catering, sat down with us to share some valuable wedding dessert tips, all from a baker's perspective. 

What tips do you have for brides who don't know where to start when it comes to looking for their cake? How should they begin the process? 
It's not uncommon for brides to start the process without knowing what they want. A lot of brides simply say they don't care,We offer a wide array of cheaplace wedding veils, mantilla veils and many other popular styles. which gives the baker a lot of freedom and flexibility. I definitely see it as a positive thing when you put your trust in a baker and allow them a lot of room to be creative. That's the whole reason we get into the business! 

When a bride comes in with a picture of what she wants, that's easy. I'm just replicating another cake. It's nice to have a personalized element instead. It means you're going into it with an open mind. It's nice for the bride, too, because it takes some of the extra pressure off of her. 

Usually the bride will come in with a planner and they bring swatches from another bakery, or photos of the flowers they're going to use. That's helpful. But it is possible to give too little information; like if the wedding colors are pink and purple, sometimes the bride will just say “Go for it!” That's when I try to pick her brain a little and find out more details about the wedding, such as [details about] the bride's or bridesmaids' dresses. I try to get a feel for the décor and overall theme of the wedding. 

How can brides pick their perfect flavor? 

Nine times out of 10, the bride does a formal tasting. Most of my brides contact me via e-mail, and most of them are very open. On my site, I have over 40 flavors listed, so I often tell brides to look at what I already have to offer. If they have something different in mind than what they see on the site, they're encouraged to let me know so we can come up with something custom-made. There's a lot you can do, like different flavors on different tiers,Time to find a beautiful formal dresses evening? for example. If they have a hard time deciding, I ask them to choose their top five flavor choices. Then we meet somewhere, like Starbucks or their home, and I bring samples. 

What are some of the most important factors when choosing a cake? 
Size! I tend to have a unique spin on my business because I specialize in mini-confections and catering. I'd be more than happy to do a full size wedding cake—last week I did a three-tier cake—but my niche is mini-desserts. I hear from brides all the time that they ordered a big cake with one flavor, and barely anyone had any. The trend is becoming cupcake towers, or even whole dessert bars and buffets with tons of different choices. It gives the guests a lot of options. I have a bride who did a whole table of seven different eight-inch cakes. Some bakers will only do one flavor on a three-tier wedding cake, but I think what most brides like variety. If they have a hard time deciding, I say, “Let's do five different types of cupcakes, then.” 

A mistake I often see is brides grossly overestimating how large their cake should be, which then leads to the common complaint that there's always a large abundance of cake left over.We have a huge selection of 2013 prom dress for you to choose from. I recommend that the brides factor two cake slices (or mini-desserts) per guest. 

Do you get a lot of grooms cake-shopping with the brides? How do you help couples who may not agree on what cake they want? 
I'd say about 50 percent of the time the grooms are involved in the process. Sometimes they're not present, but the bride will take a piece of cake home for the groom to get his input. 

Another benefit of doing multiple flavors is that if the bride wants chocolate and the groom wants vanilla, it's possible to have both. I have never,A pretty Sweetheart neckline dress can complete a look for a nice evening. ever done a wedding where there has been one cake with just one flavor, even if it's just a two-tier cake with two flavors. When it comes to the bride and groom agreeing, it's never really a problem because there are so many different flavor varieties.The Off the Shoulder cocktail dresses with draped details and decorative brooch to the chest. 

What is your favorite part of making wedding cakes? 
I've been able to grow as a baker. That's what I like best. I've baked my entire life and have always been more of a baker than a chef. I started off my business doing most of the baking myself. It was just me for almost two years before I was able to hire other staff. I like to do it because of the creativity involved, like the watercolor-inspired cake I did for Sarasota Magazine. I like that I get to hone in on my decorating skills. I also like when someone gives me a design idea, and then I get to bring that idea into fruition. I just delivered two cakes for two brothers' joint birthday party; one was a choo-choo train, one was Star Wars. When the mother opened the cakes, she started crying. She said, “I didn't know what I was picturing, but this is what I was picturing.” I like taking someone's vision and turning it into their perfect cake.