As you plan your wonderful day, expect to experience a little anxiety and a little confusion. Organizing a ceremony and reception is a huge undertaking.  There will be questions about everything.  There will be discussions about budgets, guest lists, and the overall style of the wedding.

As you plan, please remember what this day is really about — a celebration of love. Stay focused.   Make a promise to each other early on, that you will spend one evening a week, a “date night”, when the discussion of the big day is totally banned from your conversation, and simply focus on each other.  Remember that the goal of all the planning is for a wonderful  marriage and not an over the top wedding.

The engagement period is a wonderful time.  Your wedding is a day you have dreamed about for a long time.  You will be faced with decisions, compromises and debates.  Before you get “caught up” in the process of picking and choosing, please take the time to carefully plan the budget and the time line.  Do not visit a single reception site or try on a single dress, until these two vitally important steps are taken.

Money Money Money is not just an Abba song, but the starting point of a wedding.

Your wedding budget is one of the biggest factors in determining your wedding decisions.  It is essential to make a clear budget early in the planning process.

Setting a budget for the ceremony and wedding reception should be easy — you have what you have and that’s that. Sticking to the budget is where things get tough. Sit down with both sets of parents to discuss how much money you have, how much money you need, and who will be paying for what part of the wedding.

Try to plan a wedding within your means. Before you begin, determine a priority list for the ceremony and the reception. Ask yourselves a  question: Is what we are spending really worth it to both of us?  Needing five years to pay off the reception is not the way to go.  The latest figures show that 45% of weddings go over budget, so you might want to incorporate that fact into your planning.

One last thing to keep in mind is this sage advice from JoAnn Gregoli a wedding consultant from New Jersey.  “The person who pays ultimately gets what he or she wants.”   If  you want an intimate wedding, but your parents want an extravagant affair and are footing the bill—be assured that your dreams may not be realized.

You will find yourself wanting to please everyone, but ultimately you need to please yourselves.  By creating a budget and the overall plan for what you want,  before you seek advise from family, friends or vendors, you are more apt to have the day of your dreams.

There is always so much inspiration to be drawn from the red carpet and this was no exception.  In fact there were so many classic and beautiful looks that it is difficult to determine favorites.  True Hollywood glamour has returned to the carpet.

In a season dominated by vivid color, a surprising  trend at the Golden Globes featured a muted color palate with soft blushes, nudes, ivories and neutrals.  The strapless was refreshingly interrupted by sleeves.  Dramatic backs continued to be in vogue.  An overwhelming number of gowns featured  mermaid silhouettes and fishtail hemlines.

Some of the favorites…

Angelina Joli in Atelier Versace..Simplicity with a bold splash of color.

Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka, alway a class act.

Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang and $5 million of Harry Winston Jewelry

Elle MacPherson in a creme, corseted Zac Posen

Heidi Klum in Calvin Klein

Julianne Moore in Chanel Haute Couture

Jessica Alba in Gucci and Bulgari Jewels

Did you watch?  What were your thoughts..what were the hits and what were the misses?  We would love for you to share your comments!

Although watching these competitions is not my cup of tea,  I tuned in because so many of the designers featured at A L’Amour dressed the contestants.  A L’Amour and A L’Amour Party proudly showcase designs by Tony Bowls, Jovani, MacDuggal, Terani, and Sherri Hill, all of whom have a strong presence in the pageant industry and were represented Saturday night.  In addition, what is seen on stage in pageant competitions often influences the Prom collections from the designers as well. Last night I watched the competition not only as entertainment, but also as part of my job.

I must admit that I grew up watching Miss America.  As a teen I watched the pageant every year, and dreamed of one day being crowned.  Over the years I lost interest, but the buzz this year, by the designers we carry, encouraged me to tune in.

I have always been acutely aware of the wonderful scholarship awards that the pageant provides to the competitors as well as the winners.  It is a wonderful opportunity for young women.  I have never been a fan of the swimsuit completion, however, Saturday night I was blown away by the poise that these young women exhibited when parading on stage in their swimsuits.

The talent of the finalists was amazing as well—almost professional in the quality and the presentation.

I was equally impressed by the way the finalists answered the difficult questions posed by the judges…not an easy feat for the most accomplished of speakers especially when in the spotlight of millions of people.

What did not impress me was the way the competition was presented.  Major changes were apparent to me, although I must admit I have not watched in a number of years.  It seemed to me that the production was fashioned so that we were focused more on the reaction of the “loser” than of the winner.

I have since read online that the aim of this year’s production was to be more relevant and “hip”, with new elements of surprise.  Tony Eaton, the producer, also teased that there would be one “squirmy” moment in the show that’s never before been attempted on live television. Tony relayed, “I was debating whether to do it or drop it, but I’ve decided it will go in. You’ll have to watch to see who squirms more — the audience or the contestants. It’s so radically new, you’ll be glued to it as it unfolds. I can only hope it goes well, as it’s never been tried before.”

On with the show…We were introduced to 53 contestants.  Those girls were quickly reduced to 15 semi-finalists.  In a classic reality-show twist, Brooke Burke announced that the 38 who were not moving on, would be able to vote later to save an eliminated contestant.

After the swimsuit competition the field was narrowed to 12—who quickly left the stage to change, leaving 3 girls in swimsuits on stage…the backdrop being all of the other 38 contestants.

I think the new feature was the “Save”.  The final 12 were announced. As a “Surprise” the remaining 38 contestants were offered the chance to “Save” one of the 3 remaining girls left onstage by running and lining up behind the girl they wanted to “Save”.  How “grade school” and childish—not at all what I thought the pageant represented.  I could not help but feel sorry for the girls who stood on stage with not so many supporters behind them.  “Squirm”.  On top of that, Brooke Burke runs to interview the “Saved” Miss Alabama as she leaves the stage to get changed for the next part of the competition.  You know…the “How does it feel to think you lost, but now you have a second chance” interview.   Give me a break.

Then there was the final talent competition.  All of the 13 finalists were to be ready and waiting to perform on stage—but some would not have the opportunity, only 10 would perform.

All costumed and prepared, again the audience watched as the finalists were told “in no particular order”, that they were “out”. 

Reality TV—Idol, Project Runway, DWTS, The Apprentice—now too much a part of what should be a class act.

I watched the contestants—poised, accomplished, polished, talented women who aspire to make themselves and the world a better place.   These are women who aren’t afraid to use the Miss America platform to pursue their dreams.  A platform often criticized by the public.

The contestants were a class act……the production missed the mark.  Hopefully there will be enough feedback across the country that the pageant organizers will step in and create a more sophisticated event that represents the caliber of women participating.

The History of Engagement Rings

• In 1477, Archduke Maximilian gives the 1st engagement ring ever.
• Before diamond engagement rings, a simple band with a poem or message was given…this was called a Posy Ring.
• In the 1700s, the ring of choice was the Heart Shaped Ring.
• Before diamond engagement rings became huge, ruby rings and claddagh rings were used.
• In the 19th century, a sewing thimble was given in place of a ring.
• The Diamond Engagement Ring became a staple in the 1930s.
• The ring is placed on the fourth finger on the left hand because it is said to have a vein, the vena amorais, which leads directly to the heart.
• $2,600 – $4,000 is the typical price men spend on an engagement ring.
• 80% of women receive a diamond engagement ring.
• The four C’s, when referring to an engagement ring, stands for: Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut.

Source: TrendHunter

You may want to keep your engagement private for a bit longer and plan exactly who you would like to tell first and how you want to make the announcement.    Even if you veer from tradition in making your announcement, you should certainly share the news with your parents first, and then your closest family and friends.   The most intimate way of course is to meet personally with those closest to you and share the news.  If that is impossible, a simple phone call is the preferred way to begin.  If there is someone who you think might be offended by not hearing it first…be sure to put them on the preferred calling list to prevent hurt feelings.

For the major announcement outside the immediates, you may elect to make phone calls, emails, or even throw an engagement party.  Many couples announce their engagement at a party thrown by family or close friends.  Some elect to surprise their guests by making an announcement in a toast at the beginning of the evening, while others send cards with the reason for the party on the invitation.  Remember….guests asked to the engagement party will expect an invitation to the wedding, so monitor your guest list carefully.

Nearly every American newspaper allows space in the Lifestyle sections for engagement announcements.  Every publication handles this differently, so you will need to contact each individual newspaper.  You might consider several papers in different locations if you and your fiance are from different cities.

Printed announcements were the norm many years ago.  The mother of the bride would offer a handwritten announcement to notify family and friends of her daughter’s betrothal.  Handwritten notes have become rarer and rarer, as have printed cards announcing engagements.  Although not unheard of, the announcement card can be a more elegant way of communicating the happy news and provide a wonderful keepsake.  Again, this will begin to set the tone for the events to come.

However you decide to spread the news, it is the  beginning of the entire wedding planning process and sets the initial tone for your wedding.  The simplest things will begin to set the mood for the ultimate day.  Take the time to plan each step of the way carefully.

Tis the season of proposals…from Christmas through Valentines Day many men will get down on one knee to pop the question.  If it happened to you over the holidays, we congratulate you on your engagement!  You may have expected him to pop the question, or it may have been a total surprise.  We have read so many different ways that proposals have taken place—some romantic, some fun, some over the top, others spontaneous and unplanned.

How did he propose to you?  We would love to hear your stories.  Please share with us.

If we pick your engagement story to share….you will receive a special gift from A L’Amour to help you with all the planning that lies ahead.

We also want to help you in the beginning phases of your planning.  Stay tuned for a plethora of planning tips over the next weeks, and be sure to set up your appointment soon at A L’Amour to find the perfect dress your wonderful day.

Brides Magazine reports that Augusta Jones designer Charlotte Leung looked to two of the past century’s most iconic decades for her Fall 2012 inspiration: from the 1920s, she drew on bias cuts, high necklines, looser shapes, and jewels; and from the ’50s, she borrowed tailored classic cuts, boat necklines, and beautifully handcrafted floral details. —Phillip B. Crook

A L’Amour is excited to present a preview of the newest collection this weekend during our Augusta Jones Trunk show.  The gowns were recently previewed in New York during the National Bridal Couture Market and A L’Amour is one of the first salons in the country to showcase these gowns for our brides.  They will leave us on Monday and travel to Kleinfelds.

Grace

Marilyn

Judith

Shadow

 We hope that you have the opportunity to see this preview of these gowns and many others over this trunk show weekend.  You will not be disappointed.

Back by popular demand………..A L’Amour presents Girls’ Night Out.   Girls’ Night Out has been such a huge success, that we are repeating it.  We are eager to present yet another evening of  fashion and fabulous savings today, Thursday, November 3rd  from 4 to 7 PM.

We will offer 20% off on all of our social occasion and bridesmaids dresses (excluding companies with MSRP).

If you are searching for the perfect dress for evening, black tie or a special gala event, begin your search with us.  A holiday party coming up–we have the perfect dress.

If you are the Mother or Grandmother of the bride or groom….A L’Amour has one of the best selections of dresses in the Chicagoland area.

High school dances coming up…shop now.

We are also offering 20% off on all of our fabulous accessories.

  Check out our special selection of dresses for $50 and $100.

 Visit our loft with a collection of specially priced bridal gowns for

$499, $699, and $899.

Check out a selection of dresses for flowergirls reduced to $50!

Our staff eagerly awaits the chance to assist you with your selections.  You will have all of the personal attention that you deserve.

A L’Amour has proudly dressed women from their first special dress as a flowergirl or for first communion through all of the most memorable occasions of her life.  From 2 to 82, A L’Amour offers you the personal attention and selection you deserve.  From the little black dress to the ultimate white gown, A L’Amour has been dressing dreams for 20 years.

This weekend A L’Amour is excited to present Augusta Jones Bridal in a trunk show for our brides.  This collection truly has something for everyone.  You will see delicate laces, exquisite embellishments, clean lines and flawless fit.

The Augusta Jones collection was created to satisfy three basic requirements: beautiful styling,  flexibility of designs to flatter a variety of shapes, and affordability.  The line is defined by contemporary clean lines accompanied by an unexpected twist and brings stylish, designer wedding gowns to modern brides.

Clean designer lines with an emphasis on delicate details define the UK based designer Augusta Jones’ collection.  Augusta Jones gowns can be individually customized, providing our brides the choice and flexibility to create a gown that will make her feel beautiful and unique on the most special day of her life.

Take a peek at a few of the lovely gowns showcased  for you to see.

Please call us to set up an appointment time to see the collection.  Although many of the gowns are always available at A L’Amour, the 2012 collection will leave us on Monday.

What exactly is Bridal Market?  Essentially it is fashion week for the bridal world– four non-stop days of appointments all over the city.

Many designers show their collections in their own showrooms on 7th Avenue,  otherwise know as the Garment District or Fashion Center.  Many designers, not based in New York,  show their collections in various hotels all over the city.  They often take over entire hotel suites.

Romona Keveza shows her collection at the St. Regis hotel on the East side.  Swoon!  

What a location –an entire suite  filled with flowers creating the perfect backdrop for her fabulous collections.

Then there are the fashion shows.  What a great way to experience a collection.  There is quite a bit of pomp & circumstance, but a runway show is a great way to evoke the feeling of a collection.  From the music played as the models go down the runway to how their hair and makeup is styled, you immediately get the “vibe” of the latest styles.  You gain an understanding of what prompts the creativity in the collection.

So what happens after the fashion shows?  We generally have informal meetings with the designers (a writing appointment),  so that we have an up close and personal look at the gowns.  It is then that we choose our favorites!

We have to consider what trends are emerging in bridal, what our brides have been asking for, what we have in the store, and what we are missing.  SO many things going through our heads at all times!

Sound fun?  Absolutely! Seem easy?  Think again!
We will see hundreds and hundreds of wedding gowns and will have to pick and choose among them, deciding what gowns the brides who walk into A L’ Amour will want to see!

Compound the choices of “white dresses“, with the collections of accessories, headpieces, veils, shoes, jewelry, social occasion dresses for Mothers and Guests, the newest trends for bridesmaids and Prom and you can imagine how our heads spin by the end of the day.

So follow along with us through market and let us know what you’re loving, liking, your most favorite dresses, your least favorite dresses and everything in between!