Bridal Open House At Camp Lucy - 9 Sep 2010, 9:39 pm

Wednesday, September 15, 2010
6:00-8:00PM
Just a reminder to all you Austin area brides that the Camp Lucy (an absolutely gorgeous Hill Country wedding venue) is hosting their next Bridal Open House on Wednesday, September 15, 2010. Things kick off a 6PM.

Click here for directions

The Yogurt-Inspired Wedding Bouquet - 7 Sep 2010, 1:07 pm

I'm totally loving the creative design and the wonderful rainbow of colors in this Yogurt-inspired wedding bouquet! Don't you agree?


(source)

How Do I Choose The Right Veil For My Wedding Dress? - 6 Sep 2010, 7:06 pm

This week's blog reader question is from Zoe in the Lake Travis area:
How Do I Choose The Right Veil For My Wedding Dress?

Great question Zoe! Lots of planning brides struggle when trying to decide which style of veil would go best with their wedding dress. My first suggestion would be to determine how long want your veil to hang down your gown. Below is a helpful diagram from Veil Trends that lists some popular measuring criteria:

Once you determine how long you want your wedding veil to be, then it's time to decide on a basic style template. The length of your veil will help determine the best style that will go with your gown. Below is a little veil terminology to get familiar with:

The short veil style, called the FlyAway, is typically worn with an informal gown or with a dress with a striking back that shouldn't be hidden. A birdcage veil might also be an option. This veil design is very popular right now.

Another thing to consider is focal point. Your veil length should be cut just above or below any focal point on your dress. For example, don't choose a veil that ends right where your bodice begins.

Most importantly, don't settle. If you can't seem to find a style that you would feel comfortable wearing, I would suggest simply not having one. Wedding veils are an optional wedding accessory, they are not mandatory. Either way, I'm sure you'll look stunning.

Good luck with your wedding planning!

Got a wedding question for Rachel? Email me

Cute E-session: Rachel + Michael - 1 Sep 2010, 3:54 pm

What do you get when you combine an abandoned church, some amazing photography and a beautiful couple madly in love? You get a charming, intimate engagement session that we were so grateful to Magan over at Magan's Lens for sharing with all of us!

So, without further ado, I would like to introduce all of you to Rachel and Michael, an incredible Austin couple getting married in October of this year.



I totally adore that dress! And the springtime flowers are way fun!



"We love our little 1976 BMW 2002 and I'm so happy with how it is represented in the photos. Having our car in the shoot added a very special personal touch to our photos." - Rachel

After taking some great photos in East Austin, Rachel and Michael shift gears and head downtown to be within the vibe of the city.

Beautiful, in the alley.

"I love the differences between our more woodsy, whimsical shoot by an abandoned church in South Austin and our metropolitan shoot in a downtown alley. Magan and I found the church while scouting locations and it ended up being the perfect place with all of the beautiful wildflowers still in bloom. The downtown location is special because it is in an alley positioned right behind a building where Michael's family has a business. A fun surprise was that after my mother saw the photos she realized it backed up to where she used to own a little bakery downtown. We even took some shots in the old loading dock!"

A big thank you to Magan's Lens for capturing such a great Austin engagement session! And a huge congratulations to Rachel + Michael! Click here to drop by and see more photos!

We Love Wedding Dessert Tables! - 31 Aug 2010, 8:54 pm

It's been awhile since we posted some wedding dessert table inspiration, so feast your eyes on this exquisite tablescape design by the award-winning cake boutique: The Couture Cakery.


How sweet it is!



These wedding cake cookies are too cute! Such detail!





Marshmallow pops. Great idea.







We love when a dessert tablescape is a major design element of a wedding reception. If you have the opportunity (and budget) to splurge on creating one, keep the theme simple and the colors bold.

There's something elegant when sweet treats are showcased in a sophisticated presentation.

Bicycle Wedding Inspiration - 29 Aug 2010, 10:07 pm

The weather in Austin has been absolutely beautiful! So how about we start the week with a little bicycle theme wedding inspiration!

























I love the whimsical and retro feel! Bicycle weddings are oh so chic. Stay tuned for some exciting news and don't forget to follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our blog to get the latest blog updates!

Oh So Cute! Wedding Cupcake Stands - 27 Aug 2010, 4:10 pm

If you are choosing to display cupcakes at your wedding instead of a traditional wedding cake, you might want to consider adding the awesomeness of these cupcake stands from Hello Hanna to your tablescape.

Oh, and if you're feeling like trying out your DIY skills, check out these do-it-yourself cupcake stands & towers that are begging to be used at a special event!

Once Wed
Cake Journal
Design Sponge
Totally Table Tops
Ish and Chi

{Fabulous} Carnival Theme Wedding - 22 Aug 2010, 8:49 pm

Instead of trying to explain the awesomeness of Amy + Jesse's carnival theme wedding, I'll simply let the photos below do the talking. Thanks to Red Heart Photo for capturing this beautiful day and providing some creative inspiration for planning brides everywhere.
































Funky, colorful and whimsical. Such a beautiful celebration. I love the fact that this is one theme wedding that is more intimate than quirky. Truly refreshing. I hope this inspires you to personalize the day.

Austin Jewelers | Wedding & Engagement Rings - 22 Aug 2010, 6:43 pm

Wedding {DIY}: Bird Cake Topper - 20 Aug 2010, 1:34 pm

Found this cute DIY cake topper tutorial over at Blue Light Bride that would make for a fun weekend project for a do-it-yourself bride. The best part about it is that all the supplies can be purchased at a local dollar store and this entire project cost around $3!

















For the full tutorial, click here!
Have a great weekend!

Shelby + Nikkholai's Gruene Engagement Session - 17 Aug 2010, 2:30 pm

Not to far from Austin lies the quaint little town of Gruene,TX. Every time I visit, I am always in awe of the city's century-old historic buildings and natural rustic outdoor background that seems to go on forever. If you're looking for a unique location to take some breath-taking engagement pics, this place is where it's at. To prove the point, Sarah and Adam, the awesome photography duo over at InTandem photography, followed Shelby and Nikkholai along on an intimate small town engagement session that proves beauty can be found just about anywhere. Don't you agree?




I love this shot. Shelby's dress is to die for and gives this photo a modern feel that elegantly compliments the antique background. Nikkholai looks dashing in a muted attire that doesn't take away from the surroundings. Sigh, so perfect.


A whimsical kiss captured.

Refined. Rustic. Ravishing.



Such a cool photo!












These two definitely know how to add some romantic spice to a sleepy little south Texas town. A huge thanks to InTandem Photography for sharing these gorgeous photo session with all of us and a big congratulations to Shelby + Nikkholai on their engagement!

To see even more e-session pics of Shelby + Nikkholai, click here!

27 Unique Wedding Cakes - 16 Aug 2010, 1:14 pm

It's official... I'm addicted to wedding cake designs.
Throughout the week, I often bookmark a few unique wedding cakes that I stumble upon while browsing the Internet. Most of the time, I simply save them and quickly forget about them, but I thought I would start regularly sharing them with all of our blog readers for some possible design inspiration. Each photo contains a link directly below it that will take you directly to the source. Oh, and if you're still looking for more designs, this, this and this might be helpful!


Hope you enjoyed this week's wedding cake round-up!

Sneak Peek: Engagement Session - 13 Aug 2010, 12:38 pm

Just wanted to share with you a little sneak peek of a beautiful, whimsical engagement session that took place just a few miles from Austin that we will posting to the blog next week. Can't you feel the love!



Have a great weekend and don't forget to clean those rings!

25 DIY Wedding Projects That Won't Break Your Budget - 11 Aug 2010, 2:06 am

Hey all you planning brides... it's DIY time! I've put together a list of 25 do-it-yourself wedding projects that are quick, easy and definitely budget-friendly. Simply click on the pic to be taken directly to the tutorial website. If you're new to the DIY wedding world, these projects are relatively simple and are the perfect way to try out your skills and build your creative confidence. Good luck to all you DIY brides!


Have a great week!

Real Austin Wedding: Celina + Joel - 8 Aug 2010, 10:00 pm

We thought it would be fun to start the week with you by featuring a gorgeous local wedding shot by Jeff over at Jeff Loftin Photography. The lovely Celina & Joel celebrated their nuptials at Villa Antonia and the color purple was the perfect choice for a summer Austin wedding. To see all the wedding photos, click here.



I love this shot! Celina chose wedding parasols to add a fun dynamic to the group bridesmaid photo. Try checking out Etsy for some creative, budget-friendly examples.


Can you believe this view is in Austin!


Joel and the guys












Some kisses are more romantic than others :)














How divine! Both Celina and Joel looked absolutely stunning on their big day and the purple decor was impeccably used as a both a bold accent and as a subtle background tone. This is what an Austin wedding should be!

A huge thanks to Jeff Loftin Photography for sharing these fantastic photos with all of us and big "Congratulations" to Celina and Joel!

Cake - Simon Lee
DJ - Christian with Altared Weddings
Rentals - La Flor Events & Design and Mancino Iron Works
String Trio and Trumpet - Lake Austin Strings
Limo - Clean Air Limo
Florist - Bouquets of Austin
Hair - Lisa Kennedy with Dolce Salon
Makeup - Rhea McCarter
Venue - Villa Antonia with Michaja Tate
Caterer - Sterling Affairs
Stationary - Paper Daisy Designs

With so many stunning weddings happening right here in Austin, we could literally do this every week! (hint hint)

72 Groom Pocket Square Designs You Didn't Know About - 2 Aug 2010, 3:29 pm

Hey all you soon-to-be-grooms! It's YOUR wedding too, so why not step up your big day fashion by trying out a unique & new pocket square design!

Having a regular (formal) tucked-in pocket square is soooo 2008, so buck tradition and choose a fresh hankie concept that will add a fun flair to the refined sophistication of your tuxedo. Below are 72 examples to help inspire you to get those creative juices flowing!

Which one is your favorite?

(Source: Pocket Squarez)

Local Austin Wedding Photographer On Good Morning America - 30 Jul 2010, 11:02 am

6B5R52SMF6YV How cool is this! Erica over at Whitney Lee Photography recently collaborated with Melissa Rycroft (co-host of Good Morning America) for a fun segment on fashion and how social media is playing an influential part on what people are deciding to wear.

What Is The Average Cost For A 2010 Wedding? - 29 Jul 2010, 11:39 am

In the first half of 2010 the average cost of a wedding increased 21.9% from $19,581 (2009) to $23,867. (source)

Vera Wang Fall 2010 Bridal Collection - 25 Jul 2010, 4:49 pm

Oh Vera. Why must you create such breathtaking wedding dresses that I'll never get to wear :)













As you probably noticed, the overall theme for this 2010 bridal collection is: Black & White couture.

The black ribbon and bold glove accents keep a simple tone without overshadowing the design element of the dresses. Light lace and a ruffles keep each one fresh but so refined.

Beautiful “Big Day” Makeup: A Step-by-Step Guide - 19 Jul 2010, 2:27 pm

Today's guest post is by Deanna Gabelein, a local Austin professional Makeup Artist.

Applying makeup for your wedding day requires additional efforts probably not in your everyday repertoire. A couple of things to consider are 1) how your makeup will photograph and 2) whether you have appropriate products that will look good from morning brunch until after the reception.

Have no fear, armed with a few industry secrets, you’ll be able to do it yourself, no problem!

Okay, on to step number one:

1. Prep - Wash your face, apply moisturizer and/or sunscreen, then apply a foundation primer. Foundation primers are fantastic. They extend the wear of your foundation,reduce the appearance of large pores and small wrinkles, and decrease oiliness. Yay!

2. Foundation – Apply foundation to your entire face except your under eye area. I recommend using a high quality foundation with staying power for your wedding day. (I use Rae Cosmetics on my bridal clients. It looks great, is awesome for your skin, AND is humidity and sweat resistant. Major bonus for those outdoor summer celebrations.) Be aware that foundations high in SPF, especially natural ones like zinc and titanium,can reflect light back at the camera and make your face appear lighter than the rest of your body.

3. Eye Makeup – Okay. Your eyes are going to need extra definition to show up in photos. That means contouring with eye shadow, darker liner, and false eye lashes… are strongly recommended. Following is information on creating the popular “smoky eye” look. If you’re fair, use a medium brown for contouring; if you’re olive-skinned or darker, use dark brown.

a. To begin, prime your entire lid and crease area, all the way up to the brow bone, with an eye shadow primer, foundation (if it’s oil and sunscreen-free), or a small amount of concealer. Make sure you also cover the darker, recessed area at the bridge of your nose. This will keep your eyes looking bright and your eye makeup in place throughout the day.

b. Next, dust a light, flesh-colored eye shadow over the same area you applied the primer. This is your “base” color. Matte colors, like bone and vanilla, work well on almost everyone.

c. Place your darker contour color on the outer 1/3 of eye lid and in the outer ½ of your crease. Don’t blend yet, just blot on color. Also, use an eye liner brush to line the bottom lash line with this same color – all the way to the inner eye. Use a Q-Tip to soften the line.

d. Now, dip your blending brush (I use different ones for the base and blending) in the base color and use it to blend the edges of your contour color, using a circular motion. This is the secret to seamless blending. Add another layer of the contour color to the crease, using the same technique, if you think you need it.

e. Use a black eyeliner pencil or gel to line the outer ½ of your top lash line then smudge the line with your finger or a Q-Tip. Apply a thin layer of dark brown or black eye shadow over the line to soften the look and “set” the eye liner.

f. Curl lashes and apply false eye lashes. I use Ardell #110 which are very natural looking. Usually, I cut them in half and place them on the outer corners of the upper lids. Again, it looks very natural and… you get 2 pairs of lashes for the price of one. (It’s AMAZING how much lashes add definition to the eyes! Absolutely gorgeous in photos, I promise.)

g. Apply 2 coats of black, waterproof mascara to the upper and lower lashes. Use an eyelash comb to separate after coats.

h. Now, using a makeup sponge, apply foundation under eyes and all the way up the sides of the eyes, towards the brow. You’re using the sponge to adjust the “liner” under eye to the desired depth and to “clean up” any shadow too far outside the eye area.

4. Eyebrows – Brush eyebrows upright and fill in any gaps to define the shape using a brow pencil or powder. Remember, if you need your brows waxed, do it about 7 – 10 days before your wedding. The same goes for facials.

5. Concealer – Use a concealer brush to apply flesh-colored concealer only to the under eye circles. None should be placed past the point where the circle ends. This prevents the dreaded reverse raccoon look in photos. Most women benefit from a little concealer at the sides of the nose, too. Sometimes I’ll put a little at the bow (top) of the lips and underneath the middle of the lower lip to make the lips look fuller. If you have blemishes on your face or chest, use a clean, fine-tipped eyeliner brush and apply flesh-toned concealer only to the blemish – not any of the surrounding area. This is the trick to making them disappear. Easy as pie! I mean, wedding cake.

6. Face Powder – Brush face powder over your entire face including a light sweep under eyes to set concealer.

7. Blush – Use a natural-looking blush color with minimal or no shimmer. Smile – then softly dust the blush from the apples of your cheeks all the way up the cheekbone.

8. Lips – Use lip liner. You’ll need the definition in photos… and it helps your lip color stay put. I prefer lipstick over gloss at weddings since it lasts longer, isn’t as transferable or smudgy when you’re doing all that smooching, and usually looks better in photos. If you love your gloss, though, just don’t forget to use lip liner with it.

It’s a great idea to do a trial-run of your wedding makeup a week or two before the big event. Have someone take a picture of you to see how your makeup will appear in photos.

Also, don’t start any new skin care routines or products a month before the wedding. You’re going for “wow” reactions, not allergic ones. Of course, to get your teeth picture perfect,you may want to use over-the-counter bleaching strips prior to your Big Day.

Allot an hour to apply your wedding makeup. Likely, it’ll take less time than that but best not to be rushed. For best results, apply your makeup in natural light.

For touch-ups, don’t forget to carry oil blotting sheets, lipstick, and a small mirror in your purse. Have your Maid/Matron of Honor monitor your makeup throughout the day – telling you when you’re shiny or need some lipstick. Happy Wedding Day, Gorgeous!

To get more great wedding day makeup tips or to chat with Deanna, visit AustinMakeUp.com or check her out on Facebook!

Rice Crispy “Popsicle” Wedding Favors - 13 Jul 2010, 2:03 pm

One of the main reasons that couples choose not to have wedding favors at their reception is lack of budget. Wedding favors cost money and sometimes that can be a bit of a challenge to a planning budget bride. Well, instead of totally foregoing this gesture of appreciation for all your family and guests, why not offer them something that they'll totally love and won't break the bank. Introducing.... Chocolate Dipped Rice Crispy Popsicles!














If you've ever made regular ol' Rice Krispie Treats, then you'll have no problem make these delicious lovelies. For step-by-step instructions, head on over to Kathleen's blog, Twig & Thistle, to see these and other wonderfully cute inspirations! Remember, happiness is making the most of what you have. Good luck with your wedding planning!

Upcoming Bridal Shows In Austin - 12 Jul 2010, 3:24 pm

Hi everyone! Just wanted to share a few upcoming wedding events taking place in beautiful Austin,TX. If you've never been to a bridal open house before, you're in for a real treat. These gatherings solely exist to introduce local wedding professionals to planning brides (like yourself) in a casual and fun atmosphere. These events usually only last a couple of hours and you will get to enjoy food, drink, vendor chat and some chances to win some great wedding prizes! Grab your calendar, grab your fiance and mark these down so you don't forget!

July 12, 2010
Re Grand Opening of ZuZu's Petals | Kindred Oaks

July 15, 2010
Studio Open House | Studio 563

July 21, 2010
Weddings Unveiled | Palm Door

July 21, 2010
Bridal Open House | Camp Lucy

July 21, 2010
Ed Kelley Photography Open House

August 7, 2010
Fall/Winter Bridal Show | Tech Ridge HEB

Oh, and if you want to share an open house event with us so we can let our readers know, simply email us!

Cute Wedding Cake Topper - 6 Jul 2010, 11:43 pm

Well I guess you can't technically call this a cake "topper" since the decor is on the side but hey, I'll let it slide since they are so dang cute! Click the image for a larger view.

Everything Wedding Blog Carnival #6 - 4 Jul 2010, 4:05 pm

The Austin Wedding Blog is totally thrilled to be hosting this month's edition of the Everything Wedding Blog Carnival! While it was difficult to narrow down my favs, below you will find my hand-chosen posts from some of the beautiful wedding blogs that personally inspire me. I hope you enjoy the read and I'd love to know if any of these splendid finds inspire you!

Vintage weddings are HOT right now, and these blogs have their finger on the pulse of this industry.
If you're obsessed with vintage weddings as much as I am, look no further than these eclectic era gowns from Tavin Boutique found on the LolliBlog. I'm in love.
Subtle rustic details and a simple organic design give this gorgeous wedding, found on La Belle Bride, a vintage but modern feel.

The girls over at Ruffled show off this amazing vintage inspired real wedding complete with a tandem bicycle and the coolest bride tights you've ever seen!

Before The Big Day shares this vintage floral inspiration that accents mute color tones with eye-popping accents. Rustic brides will love this.

If you look close enough to this couple's cake toppers, you'll notice their outfits are painted to match the bride and groom’s clothes, down to the swirly lace on the top the bride's dress.

The WeddingWire blog dishes out some vintage goodness with this classy real wedding of Krystal + Booker.

How fun is this vintage inspired wedding from The Indie Bride! The costume masks and groom's boutonniere make for a truly unique celebration.

This breakfast buffet reception on The Sweetest Occasion proves that even the simplest of ideas can be vintage-chic with the right details.

My DIY Wedding Day shares a great tutorial on how to make your own wedding pinwheels! They're easy to make and you can play with different colors and patterns that match your wedding theme.


Ethical Weddings give a few tips on ways to reduce your impact on your honeymoon travels. Just being conscious about your plans can help you and planet Earth get along in harmony.

Joining the “green” movement in the event industry is still proving to be a great challenge, that's why Preston Bailey dishes out some advice on stay true to your eco-friendly roots.

What's a wedding without color? Get ready to feast your eyes on some bridal bliss eye-candy!

Don't forget to subscribe to our blog via email to get more great posts like this one!

Happy 4th! - 4 Jul 2010, 3:06 pm