Happy Fri-Style Friday.

There’s no better way to bring a productive week to a close than by showcasing an event that embodies high-end style, DIY designs and cost cutting techniques for the ultimate wedding.  Get ready for Lacroix, Louboutin and all things Lavish…all you have to do is drool with envy, and take some of the planning tips to heart.

Vendor J’Adore inductee – Carlos Andres Varela of Cava Weddings was super generous in bestowing upon me, the power of free roaming access through the album of Kali and Nicholas’ New York extravaganza.  Sounds like a biblical hand down, I know, but I felt pretty honored.  It was a bittersweet gold mine of options for a kid in a confectionery theme park.  And it began with a welcome ticket…

Setting: New York City

Heroine & Hero: Greek Born, NY Bred Bride – Kali and her London Beau – Nicholas

Scene #1: A GODDESS PREPARES…

(Above: Bride gown by Christian LaCroix; Head piece from Kleinfeld Bridal; Shoes by Christian Louboutin; Flowers by George Vellios of Dyker Heights Florist)

The stage is set for the perfect realization of a strong sense of style and vision.  Kali wanted a “Marie Antoinette Garden Party” and executed it perfectly with a subtle infusion of design elements, bold fashion choices and reception details that evoke good ole Marie.  A modern interpretation with the same Marie A. spirit of robust florals, trend setting gowns and transformative beauty.  It’s also a huge score, when you have a photographer like Carlos behind the lens, crafting your visual story.

Scene #2: ORTHODOX IN THE CITY

(Above: Ceremony at The Greek Orthodox Church of Annunciation)

Wedding Tradition Idea – Greek

In Orthodox Greek wedding ceremonies, a common practice among many others is the “Crowning”.  Thin crowns  called The Stefana, are attached by a ribbon and blessed by the priest.  After blessings, they are placed on the bride and groom’s head to symbolize the glory and honor bestowed upon them by God.  The ribbon joining the crowns symbolize the couple’s unity.  Kali and Nicholas incorporated this lovely tradition into their ceremony.

For more ideas on Greek wedding traditions, visit here or here.

Scene #3: CLASSIC CARS & CHARMING RIDES

I can’t believe I lived in New York for four years (in Grad School at Columbia University), and didn’t know about the options available of renting charming Pedicabs in the city.  It’s just a great reminder of how amorphous and dynamic the big apple is.  You learn something new everyday, whether you live there or not.

Kali and Nicholas rented little cabs for their 200 guests to whisk them 20 blocks away from the church to the boathouse in central park.  With the weather being warm, this would a memorable and unique way for your guests to avoid the usual stall and confusion of post-ceremony transportation.  They distinguished their entourage by labeling each pedicab with personalized wedding banners.

(Above:  Wedding vehicle from Creative Film Cars; Pedicabs from Revolution Rickshaws)

For all you car buffs out there, that classy ride in the photo is a 1936 Ford Phaeton. A suitable alternative to Kali’s initial desire to have a porsche speedster as their getaway whip.  Not a bad way to cruise through the streets of New York city.

Scene #4: MAGICAL BOATHOUSE GARDEN

I couldn’t believe it when Kali told me that they didn’t hire an event planner.  Not because it’s not possible to have a beautiful wedding without one, but the level of detail and creativity at the reception had me speechless.  “Details are very important and I added a personal touch to every aspect the day.” Says Kali, “It is possible to keep it under budget if you let the creative side of you come out and do things by yourself at home.”

Which brings me to an important point:   You can pull off an editorial worthy wedding without the editorial costs.   Pick the things you will splurge on, like your dress, shoes or venue…and then be frugal and inventive about the others.  The beautiful bird cage centerpieces, seating cards and stationery were all done by the bride with the help of family.

(Above: All Images by © Carlos Andres Varela; Reception at The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park; Cake by Sugar Coated; Stationery by Arthur’s Invitations)

The couple opted out of doing another well known tradition in Greek weddings of breaking glass.  Obviously, that would’ve proved problematic in a rented space.  So as a compromise the festive couple along with their guest had a fun night of showering the dance floor with money, which all went to the musicians at the end of the night.

“I would definitely recommend not losing yourself, and getting so tangled up in the planning that you forget to have fun…You need to enjoy every minute of it and not forget what and who the night is about. You and your husband.”

- Kali, the Bride-

I can’t thank Carlos enough for all these truly gorgeous pictures.  And to K & N, here’s to more inspiring stories and memories from your new life as husband and wife.  Congrats.

Spicyhugs,

Fri

Merry Christmas to all who celebrate this holiday, and happy Fri-Style Friday.

I’ve recently become completely enamored by all the holiday decorations and ideas out there in print and on the web.  For the worldly bride and style savvy dresser who’s not afraid to go bold, here are some fun ways to let the colors of holiday decor inspire your look (and vice versa)…because inspiration comes in all colors.

(Above: All Images ©.  Left photo from Canadian House and Home via House of Turquoise; Center photo by Gilles-Marie Zimmermann; Right photo by A Life in Focus Photography via here)

(Above: All Images ©. Pink Christmas Tree by Kimberly Taylor; Model via BHF Magazine; Ornaments and Wreaths via Enchanted Rose Studio)

(Above: All Images ©. Banquet by Living Etc via Alkemie; Model and Horse by SOTA Photography via  Over Exposed)

(Above: All Images ©. Ornaments via Latest Homes Magazine; Pine Cones via Wishpot Wedding Blog; Traditional Korean Attire by Andre Kim)

(Above: All Images ©. Table Setting by Sweet Paul via Luphia Loves; Top Right; Bottom Left; Christmas Tree photo by Terry Gruber & Jeremy Saladyga via Brides)

Wedding Tradition Idea – Albanian/Serbian/Kosova.

As you know, I’m always on the hunt for new ideas for wedding practices around the globe.  I recently found a practice that’s ripe with so many possibilities.  In eastern Europe, Kosovar Bosnian brides will sometimes get their faces elaborately painted (see image above), in very intricate and beautiful designs.  This tradition is done on the bride’s wedding day to ward off bad luck from her pending marriage.  (Source).

For more ideas on Eastern European Wedding Customs, read: here,  here & here.

Dream in Color, Dream in Culture.

Have a great Holiday Weekend.

Spicyhugs,

Fri

A while back, I was drooling over the Princeton engagement photo shoot by Vendor J’Adore Fave: Onada Photography. Well, as promised, I’m excited to feature more of Onada’s work, in today’s Nigerian/German fusion wedding. It’s cheery, it’s charming…it’s what great memories are made of.

Setting: New Jersey Waterfront.

Heroine & Hero: Ndidi, a stylish bride originally from Southeast Nigeria and her Bavarian Groom – Gunnar (of German descent).

Scene 1: A splash of Yellow, Chanel and Mint Green.

(Above: Bridal Gown by Maggie Sottero, Shoes by Caparros by DSW)

Scene 2: Wedding Aisle March

This is really a follow up ceremony to their traditional wedding in the bride’s home country of Nigeria. However, I love that how they found ways to incorporate heritage and custom into a modern yellow affair…

(Above: Ceremony at St. James Episcopal Church)

…By incorporating classic German compositions, as well as Nigerian Praise songs, every one of their guests was able to feel at home.

Germany Wedding Tradition Idea:

Ndidi and Gunnar incorporated a wonderful Bavarian tradition called the Baumstamm Sägen (which means “Log Sawing”) right after the church ceremony. Typically, when the couple exits the church there is a log on a sawhorse that the couple has to cut in half. The act of joining forces to saw the log in half (which may vary in size) symbolizes the first tough task of their life as husband and wife, that they can accomplish together. Ndidi did not hesitate to add that their sweat and triumph endured in spite of how much amusement they provided the guests. For other ideas on German wedding traditions, visit here.

Scene 3: Yellow is always Personal…even in Receptions.

There’s something about yellow that not only brightens up the day, but makes everything seem so much cleaner. It can also provide an unexpected breathe of fresh air for locations that are loaded with history. “I picked the reception site based on the fact that it had a charming old feel to it with modern amenities for the guest (and has a a lot of local history attached to it as well).” Ndidi said. ” I also liked the fact that I could bring my own caterer in because at that time, I wasn’t sure about the type of menu I wanted. They also had a nice terrace for guests to sit for the cocktail hour and had windows all around the reception room so a lot of natural light came into the room as well.”

(Above: Floral arrangements by Peter Born; Catering from Catering by Christine; Event Manager – Suzanne at the Reception, Women’s Club of Glen Ridge; Traditional attire from Phunk Afrique)

Nigerian Wedding Tradition Idea:

I’ve talked about this before, as it’s come up in other weddings we’ve featured, but Kola nut is a prized and symbolic entity among many West African ceremonies (including my own wedding). In Ndidi’s native language, this age old custom of blessings and prayers to one’s ancestors is called Iwa Oji which means “to break kola nut.”

“It is a sign of goodwill to share it with a spicy peanut paste with guests” Ndidi says, “My aunt of course brought Jif peanut butter.” I love this fact, because, it’s quite common and normal for the modern bride to be flexible and adapt to her surroundings. Spicy peanut paste isn’t necessarily sold at Whole Foods :-).

For a friendly reminder on Kola nut tradition read here. Or you can check out Rene and Uche’s Jewish/Nigerian wedding featured a while back, for more visuals.

(All Images by © Onada Photography)

“Remember, there are two of you, not one person. Find things that are practical depending on what you desire and try not to let one culture totally overshadow the other. This was key for me because it’s easy to get into the trap of trying to please family, but this is about you and your husband. We had fun and celebrated our differences. It was beautiful for me to see our families having a blast, regardless of culture/color. A true blessing.”

- Ndidi, the Bride-

A huge congratulations to N & G on tying the knot, or rather – sawing the log. Thanks again to Onada for providing the photographs.

Spicyhugs,

Fri

Back in September, Wedding Nouveau did a feature on Maori customs and couture, a Polynesian Pursuit.  Today’s couture board is no different.  From Vintage Goddess looks and bohemian flirt, to haute Cherokee Glam…there’s tons of Native American-inspired couture for the bride who wants to connect to her Indian roots.

Inspiration: From Pocahontas, to Poca-HOTNESS!

(The journey from Vintage Goddess to Cherokee Glam)

(All Images ©.  1. Native American Headpiece with Indian Saree from CWTV via here.  2. Vintage photo.  3.  Bohemian Fringe via Boho Glamour.  4.  Bohemian Dress with feather necklace by Roshi Salim via here.  5.  Winter Fur look from Vogue Paris via Fashion Gone Rogue [Photo by Mario Sorrenti].  6.  Feather Head piece via So Right Now.  7. Runway model Swarovski Runway show via here [Photo by Gareth Cattermole] 8. Woman in traditional skirt from Miccosukee Fashion show via here.  9. Model w/ head piece via Master Jack.  10. Runway Dress by Diane Von Furstenburg’s Spring 2010 collection via Style.com.  11. Woman in Desert via here.  12. Cherokee Glam Outfit via here.)

Wedding Tradition Ideas:

I would be doing a huge disservice to Native American culture, if I even attempted to reduce it to one thing.  Instead,  here are a few sites that I think offer a comprehensive breakdown of some really cool and symbolic Native American wedding customs.  Take your pick.

American Indian Wedding Traditions

Native American Wedding Vows

Native American Traditions

Spicyhugs,

Fri

Fri-Style Friday’s award for “Slap me, this is so pretty” goes to Austrian-born photojournalist: Rosemarie of Rosemarie Lion Photography.  Now based out of San Francisco, she offers artistic documentary-style photography as she tag teams on site shoots with her collaborative husband, Gerard.

Let’s get right to it, because as you will soon find out from the gallery of delicious art, today’s bride was a gem of information and juicy insights into their Persian Fusion wedding.  It’s not only picture perfect, but filled with creative solutions, family collaboration and practical approaches to executing your ideal fairy tale wedding of any cultural style.

Setting: Classy Family Restaurant in Palo Alto, CA.

Heroine & Hero: Jessica, a discerning & artistic bride by way of Franco-Austri-Italian heritage :-), and  her groom Arshan – of Persian/Iranian Descent.

Scene 1: Aura, Anticipation and Broken-In Shoes.

(Above:  Bridal gown by Jin Wang; Bouquet by Karen Hsu of Grandi Flora; Shoes from Banana Republic; Groom’s suit from Burberry)

Both Jessica and Arshan opted to wear pre-worn shoes for their special day. I mean let’s be honest, when you’re fully dress for your wedding, unless you hike up your pants or skirt, who’s going to know the difference.  Clever, and cost effective.

Scene 2: Romance is in the Details.

(Above: Ceremony at MacArthur Park Restaurant);  Traditional Persian Display by Firouzeh Jahanshahi of Angel’s Touch; Mother of the Groom’s Champagne Attire by Dior)

Persian Wedding Tradition Ideas:

Let me interrupt the flow of images for a second and just state how much I love the many wedding customs for a traditional Persian weddings.  The burgundy and gold rug you see in the image above, along with the buffet of spices, gold colors, candles and/or sweet bread are part of the Sofreh-Ye Aghd ceremony.  The Sofreh (meaning “spread”) is typically set on the floor facing east, and several elements representing different things are put on elegant display for the ceremony.  With roots in Zoroastrian faith, it’s quite common to see islamic versions of this display with verses of the Koran, as well as modern interpretations in which the fabric is more slick, and less intricate.  Either way, it’s what’s on the Sofreh that makes the ceremony.  For example the reflective mirror represents the light that shines into the couple’s future.  For more info on all the approaches to traditional Persian weddings, visit here.  And yes, it seems to be spelled differently, depending on where you go.  Anyway, let’s continue…

You might think that Jessica and Arshan had a strictly Persian style Wedding.  As you know, Wedding Nouveau is all about finding ways to fuse tradition with modern style.   So a “by-the-book” affair, wouldn’t really offer much insight other than pretty pictures.  Fortunately, this one is different. I was thrilled to find out how they tweaked certain “rules” in getting away with the perfect blend of Western and  Middle Eastern.

When asked how their wedding leveraged  tradition vs. personal style, Jessica’s enthusiasm resumed:  “This was the fun part.  Once we learned what was important, we borrowed bits and pieces from Persian traditions as well as western traditions to create something unique for our ceremony.”  Jessica replied: “We chose which direction to face based on what worked best in the restaurant.  We did have some traditional herbs and spices and other items (such as honey), and our holy book was a book of Rumi’s poems (we decided that book was spiritual enough for all of us)! We also included a picture of my grandparents on their wedding day as part of the spread. Our goal was to incorporate things that were important to us in the joining of our lives together and the Sofreh-ye Aghd became a place to do that and to share with all of our friends and family.”

Scene 3: A Plush Palate indeed!

(Above: Music by The Ebrahimi Brothers; Cakes by Masse’s Pastries; Reception location and Event Planning by Diane Howard at MacArthur Park Restaurant)

Challenge: How do you blend modern style with the romance of traditional Persian Customs?

How they Did it? :  1. Make a list of the expected traditional “rules”, and remove what doesn’t resonate with you.  For example, Jessica and Arshan decided to forgo the gift giving portion of the ceremony, which involves adorning the bride with jewelry in front of all the guests. 2. With a traditional style event, guests often feel stiff and obliged to be reverential.  Help them relax before the ceremony, by incorporating a very light happy hour before the wedding with beverages and an abridged selection of Hor D’ouvres  3. Comfort, comfort, comfort!  Balance new couture with worn-in shoes.  Leverage long positions in certain traditional poses, for hidden knee pads or cushion pillows..  4. Lace together spiritual readings that resonate with both the bride and groom.  This can involve the use of dual language, scripture and intermixing rituals. 5. Trust the experts.  Sometimes that’s an event planner, and other times that’s family.  Use the insight of family wherever possible, as this will always make for a more personal touch.  There might be some traditional custom that you didn’t know your grand parents practiced.  6. Make it personal where ever possible.  Jessica included a lovely portrait of her maternal grandparents on their wedding day as part of the Soufreh-Ye Aghd.  A simple yet memorable detail.

(Above: All Images by © Rosemarie Lion Photography; Outdoor shot at Gamble Gardens)

“There is such a richness in each person/family’s story, and in our experience it was just a matter of letting go and letting it be shared. I think once you understand what is important to each side, and you can find a way to include those elements, the rest just works itself out.”

-Jessica, the Bride-

I can’t thank Rosemarie enough for sending me these beautiful photos.  And to J & A for being so open with their dreamy wedding, I say merci and congratulations on your new baby girl:-)

Spicyhugs,

Fri

It’s amazing how many different cultural styles incorporate blue into a glamorous bridal look.  Whether it’s soft and romantic, evocative in pastel blue and light teals, or bold and dramatic like navy or cobalt, one thing unifies each cultural style:  It’s all fabulous.

In my dream world, a bride is able to incorporate any one of these style ideas, regardless of heritage, into either one of the blue-inspired boards from earlier today.  It’s all about mixing modern with traditional. Why? Because it’s your wedding, and you can do whatever you like.

Inspiration: BLUE

(Above: Korean Couture by Andre Kim via here)

(Above: Native American Wedding Attire via here)

(CREDITS-  1) West Africa [Fabric by Vlisco].  2) India [Saree Gown via here]  3) Korea/ Western [Western gown by Dior, very similar to the Korean Jeogori and Chima]; 4) India/ Dubai [Gown via Ekta Singh]. 5) Turkey/Muslim [Gown by Bala Couture]. 6) Japanese Designer Yumi Katsura; 7) Kuwait [Gown by Nili Zahar]. 8) China [Cheongsam Gown via here]. 9) Fusion [Gown by Chinese/ Puerto Rican Designer - Chrissy Wai-Ching].  10)  Brazil [Gown by Carlos Miele])

(Above: Indian/ Pakistani Gown via Indian Wedding Site]

Dream in color, Dream in Culture!

Spicyhugs,

Fri

So we started off with a Gold Wedding Inspiration board (posted earlier today).  Now, to take it further, there are alternative ways to incorporate your traditional attire into the overall color palette, without sticking out like a Slayer fan at a Joni Mitchell concert.

Gold is used in many wedding cultures as symbol of wealth, abundance and prosperity in marriage.  From the reverence of the Sun and fire in Buddhist cultures such as Tibet and China, to prosperity and abundance in Hindu cultures such as India and Sri Lanka.

Inspiration: GOLD

(Above: Traditional Cambodian Khmer Wedding Attire via KhmerLife)

(Above: Traditional Indian Lehenga Choli by Bikas Das via Examiner)

(CREDITS-  1) Egypt [Gown by Therez Fleetwood].  2) Gown by Lebanese Designer Elie Saab.  3) Vietnam [Ao Dai Gown by David Minh Duc via here] 4) Sri Lanka [Innaik Koorai Gown via here]. 5) West African [Gown by Therez Fleetwood]. 6) Gown by Syrian Designer Rami Al Ali 7) Germany [Dirndl Gown]. 8) Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, Singapore [Kebaya Gown]. 9) Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria [Head wrap by Segun Gele].  10)  Kenya [Gown by Monica Kanari].  11) Bahrain. [Photo Adam Woolfitt]  12) Peru [Photo by Kimiko Yoshida via Creative Roots]  13. Gown by Italian Designer Toi Couture. 14. Turkey [Ankara Gown via here].

(Above: Traditional Korean Gown by Andre Kim via here)

Dream in color, Dream in Culture!

Spicyhugs,

Fri

Yay, it’s November…and we’re off to a great start.  

There’s no better way to kick off the month of thanksgiving than by sharing a beautiful fusion wedding filled with family, tradition and modern romance, all the things that one should be thankful for, among others.  Our story unfolds among the historic landscape of Williamsburg, VA.  Filled  with tangible American history, remnants of crisp colonial architecture, and the setting of  gorgeous Taiwanese/Filipino wedding photographed by the one and only: Echard Wheeler.

Setting: A restored 18th century Lodge in Williamsburg, VA.

Heroine & Hero: Helene – a blushing bride of Taiwanese descent and her  Filipino Groom, Carlo.

SCENE 1: Bling, Bouquets and a Blushing Bride.

(All Images by © Echard Wheeler Photography)

(Above: Bridal “Halar“ gown by Pronovias 2009 Collection; Hair by Holly of Colonial Williamsburg; Make up by Bride using Bare Escentuals & MAC; Bride’s shoes by Caparros; Bouquet by My Favorite Things; Necklace by A.R. Morris Jewelers; All other jewelry from Nadri; Veil from Jennifer’s Bridal Salon)

SCENE 2: The Calm before “I Do.”

(Above: Groom’s suit from Men’s Warehouse; Boutonniere by My Favorite Things; Engagement ring from Ritani; Bride’s wedding Band from Tiffany & Co. and groom’s Wedding band from A.R Morris Jewelers.)

SCENE 3: A Charming Catholic Ceremony

(Above: Ceremony at St. Joan of Arc in Yorktown, VA)

Tradition Ideas:

During their catholic mass ceremony, Helene and Carlo incorporated a few Filipino wedding traditions.  1.  The first involved having “God parents” or sponsors (also known in Tagalog as ninong or ninang), who’s role is to walk ahead during the procession to bless and show support of the union.  2.  They also had the candle lighting and veil pining ceremony as well.   The former involves a couple that’s close to the bride and groom, lighting a candle together to illuminate the way for Helene and Carlo’s Marraige.  3.  The latter involved, pinning a veil across the bride and groom as well as a lose cord symbolizing the infinite bond of marriage.  4.  Finally, they had both sets of parents, their priest as well as themselves sign a traditional fabric bound Taiwanese certificate.

For more ideas on Filipino & Taiwanese wedding traditions, visit here or here.

Scene 4: Romantic Receptions and Dreamy Details.

(Above: Reception at Williamsburg Lodge; Event Coordination and Linens by Isha Foss Events; Lighting by Blue Steel Lighting Design; Cake by Williamsburg Lodge)

The best part about a wedding to me is the reception.  Why? You can tell a lot about the couples personality by their choice of festive details, colors, music and decor.  Isha Foss did an amazing job of bringing Helene and Carlo’s vision to life.  I also love the Spotlit centerpieces (effective and simple alternatives to candles, that  add drama to your table).  Other little fabulous details were the engraved wooden chopstick place card holders/ favors and the folded origami paper cranes done by the bride and groom which symbolized eternal loyalty (as cranes mate for life).  Details through and through…I love it.

SCENE 5: Rhythm and Music

With over 250 guests in attendance, the operative word was fun.  By blending traditional musical styles with hip and modern pop, everyone is bound to have a great time.

(Above: Filipino band by D’Originals; Traditional Chinese Lion Dancers from Jow Ga Kung Fu Academy; Bride’s Tradional gown [Cheongsam] from Local Alterations Business in Derwood, MD; Groom’s Traditional attire [Barong Tagalong] from the Philippines.

Challenge: Finding a romantic, modern and fun way to fuse two very distinct cultural traditions.  In this case Filipino & Taiwanese customs?

How they Did it? :  1. Incorporate tradition in the ceremony, instead of sticking to standard mass protocol.  2. Mix traditional dance with modern music styles, such as the Lion Dance procession with a live jazz band.  While you’re at it, if you can find a live band that can play both pop and traditional folk, even better 3. Personalize your table numbers with information that’s significant to you.  4. By picking a relatively neutral venue, each detail choice stands out better without competing with the surroundings.  5. The bride and groom chose to make it fun and not stagnant.  You can express this in your choice of favors, lighting, music, etc. 

(All Images by © Echard Wheeler Photography)

“We wanted our wedding to be fun and nontraditional”

-Helene, the Bride-

Helene, a huge thank you for providing all the details of how you pulled off such a stunner.  Congrats to you and Carlo.  And to Echard Wheeler  for providing the photos, I say Merci!

Spicyhugs,

Fri