Author: Olga Pomeransky

Olga is manager at Best for Bride since 2005. Currently Best for Bride operates 4 bridal stores in Canada (Toronto, Etobicoke, Hamilton and Barrie). Best for Bride sells wedding, bridesmaids, mob dresses and more. http://www.BestForBride.com
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Top Wedding photography mistakes and how to avoid them

Every couple makes memories on their wedding day, and these special memories are captured forever in a couple’s wedding album.

Wedding photographs document of the most special day of your life. Hence, it is one wedding detail that deserves a lot of attention. Never undermine the importance of planning your wedding photography well. Why? Only then will your wedding photos help you recollect every beautiful memory of this big day in the best possible way.

The quality of your pictures will greatly depend on the skill of the photographer you hired for the job. Nevertheless, minor and major mistakes from your side can also create problems on your wedding day. Unfortunately, this means that you will end up with photographs that are less than satisfactory.

Let us take a look at what these potential mistakes are, and how you can overcome them.

Never prioritize cost over quality

I strongly believe that no couple should compromise on cost when they choose their wedding photographer. After all, this is the one record of the biggest event in your lifetime. There is no way you can enjoy the details of this special day later unless your photographs capture it well. So, remember that a seasoned expert in photography is worth his price.

There will be amateur photographers or those who offer you a cheaper deal than a professional. However the risk of ending up with poor quality images is high in this case. And that is definitely not worth doing. If you have a very small budget, opt for a smaller package from a good photographer. Leave the album compilation for later, when you have the funds for it.

You should familiarize yourself with the photographer before the wedding day

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You will be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day. Hence, it is really important that you connect with him. Not all couples are naturally camera-friendly. If this is the case, you can overcome your shyness by becoming familiar with the photographer before your wedding day.

Engagement shoots are a great way to get to know your photographer’s style of work. It also gives you the opportunity to get used to the camera and become comfortable with it. This experience will make you more comfortable to face the camera on your wedding day. It will help you prepare better for the photography sessions on your wedding day. If you aren’t sure of whether you want an engagement shoot, take a look at what the Huff Post has to say about it. I’m sure it’ll have you convinced in no time. 

Make sure to discuss how you want your photos

Not all couples realize that there are different types of wedding photography. This article on A Practical Wedding will guide you through the common styles.  It is important to recognize which of these is your preferred style, and then find a photographer who follows it. The photographer’s portfolio will give you a general idea of his style of working. So, use this as your guide.

Even after you choose your photographer, you should clearly communicate your expectations to him. Discuss how you want to look in the pictures, what to include in it and any other relevant information. This will allow him to direct his shots accordingly.

Do settle on a realistic wedding day schedule

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If there is one person you should consult before you finalize your wedding day timeline, it is your photographer. Every important detail and event on the day deserves photo coverage. His previous experience will help your photographer guide you on how much time you should allot to the different things you have to do on the day. You should have plenty of buffer time between different events, in case anything falls behind schedule. Plan this with your photographer, so he won’t have to cut down on taking essential pictures.

If you run short of time, you may have to rush through or cancel your photo shoots at the last minute. This means you will be missing valuable pictures that ought to make it to your album. You should also get his opinion when planning the couple shoot and outdoor pictures. The quality of the images will depend on the amount of natural lighting available. So, plan your timeline to incorporate all these factors. Remember that the best photos are those that aren’t rushed but which feature you in your natural element.

Enlist help for collecting everyone for your pictures

Every couple will be doing portrait shoots with family and friends, apart from with the bridal party. Unless your photographer personally knows both your families, it will be impossible for him to get all the people for each of the shots in place on time. You can avoid this by simply assigning the job of collecting everyone for the photos to one of the bridesmaids or groomsmen. Make sure this is someone who knows everyone from both families.

While you give your photographer a list of group photos to be taken, make a copy of the list for the shoot organizer. Discuss details with them in advance and tell them who should come together in each picture. They can then direct everyone to the right place on time, and ensure they miss nobody.

You must have at least few candid shots

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The best pictures are those in which you look yourself. Although you will have to pose for a number of portraits and group pictures, that shouldn’t be all that is in your album. For a true documentation of your wedding day, allow your photographer to roam around and take pictures according to will.

You should always have a list of must-have’s, but trust your photographer to do the rest according to his own ideas. A creative and skilled photographer will know what all to include to make your album truly special. Leave him to take at least few candid shots of you and the guests at the party, and your album will be unique in it’s own way.

Ignore the camera unless told otherwise

It is your special day, and you want to look perfect in your pictures. This is possible only if you relax and enjoy your photography session. Many couples focus too much on the photo shoot and look unnatural and uneasy in their pictures. When exhausted, people also make the mistake of faking a grin for the camera. This can ruin the entire effect.

Unless it is a portrait shot or a group photo where you are facing the camera, it is best to ignore the camera and lose yourself in the day. Follow your photographer’s cues and he will ask you to look at the camera when required. Try and look natural, and your photographs will still be great even if you aren’t looking into the camera.

Practice your poses

8 Interesting wedding dress features to inspire the modern bride

Do you remember me mentioning that you will have to pose for portraits and group photos at your wedding photo shoot? Prepare yourself for it in advance and practice your best poses. Take a look at some of your old photos, and identify those that you like best. Pay attention to how you faced the camera in each of them. This will help you identify your best angles, profile and look. Practice this in front of the mirror during the days leading up to your wedding. So, when it is time to smile, you can quickly settle into this pose.

If you are unsure, ask your photographer to help you identify your best profile. Nevertheless, don’t be too rigid or pose too much, as this can become boring. Stand up straight, pull your chin in and simply angle yourself in the right direction to look your best.

Don’t take too many trendy pictures

From wedding dress trends to trends in wedding favors and even in photography props, there are plenty of trends to tempt couples. Following the trend is often exciting. However, don’t forget that trends come and go. On the other hand, classic styles and poses are timeless.

Think of whether you will be just as satisfied with the props, poses and shots when you look at your album ten years of now, when embracing a trend. Remember how some of the photos in your parents albums look outdated now. Some of them may even seem hilarious. Do you want to experience the same? If not, follow trends in moderation and avoid anything that is too extreme.

Discuss essential details

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You will have a list of people to include in the photos and the different events during the day that you want in your wedding album. Create a similar list for the various details that you want to be part of your album.

For instance, you may want a close-up shot of your expensive wedding jewelry or a picture in a particular location in your house. Make sure you mention it to your photographer. This way, he will not overlook the detail.

Choose photogenic makeup and colors

Not all makeup and hairstyles are photogenic. Unless you consider how your make-up and hairstyle will look on camera in advance, you may be in for a nasty surprise. Spray tans, for example, will give you an orange complexion in most lighting. Similarly, glitter may look glamorous in person, but looks like sweat in photos. In the case of hairstyles, leaving your hair open in a windy outdoor venue can result in your face being obscured by your hair flying in the wind.

Consider these factors when choosing your hair and makeup. Opt for a bridal portrait or engagement shoot. This gives you the opportunity to try the same hair and makeup as you want for your wedding day. You can see firsthand how it translates into pictures and change it if doesn’t look flattering.

Research and explore the options at the venue

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Each venue will offer unique photography options. You will not know about it unless you explore the location in advance. When you visit the venue before the wedding, walk around and locate unique spots that will make good backdrops for your pictures. Talk to the venue manager to find out if there are unique spots for photos that you may not have noticed.

Natural lighting looks best in pictures. So, try to include at least few outdoor shots in your pictures. Discuss possible locations with your photographer, both indoors and outdoors. If lighting is limited in any area, tell your photographer about it. He can then bring extra lighting equipment.

Follow the photographer’s instructions, even if they sound odd

Trust your photographer when he asks you to do something, even if it seems unusual. With a skilled person behind the camera, you can be sure he knows what he is doing. Sometimes its these unusual poses and expressions that translate into unique pictures. So, don’t worry too much about making everything perfect. As long as you have a great photographer and you have dressed your absolute best, everything should quickly fall into place.

Just relax and enjoy yourself, and the happiness will permeate your photographs. Make the most of this rare opportunity of being in the limelight. Enjoy every moment. Your album will be proof of the best fun you ever had.

To look your best on your wedding day, you need a dream wedding dress and a beautiful bridal party to match!

Look no further, for both these needs can be realized at Best for Bride, Canada’s leading bridal destination. Check out our website here for the latest and trending wedding dress collections. There is enough variety to meet every bride’s wedding vision. Also take a tour through our accessories page, bridal party dresses and dresses for special occasions to find all that you need for your big milestone event.

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Top Wedding Planning Hacks for Busy Brides

Women who’ve been married before you will tell you that wedding planning is a full-time job in itself. If you are a busy bride with enough on your plate already, you will have enough responsibilities to handle daily. So,  it won’t be too easy to engage in wedding planning. Nonetheless, if the women before you have done it, so can you!

The idea is to have a systematic and organized approach to plan your wedding. Take a look at the tips we’ve compiled, and beat the stress. It will help you plan your wedding well despite your additional responsibilities.

Start in advance

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Wedding planner Sharon Sacks on the Huffington Post, mentions how important it is to plan your wedding in advance, especially if you work full-time. It isn’t easy to balance work and a plan a wedding. Like she says, nobody should have to choose between a job and their wedding planning. The two can progress smoothly if you can work out a balanced plan.

The key to this is to start early. The more time you give yourself to handle different tasks, the more relaxed you will be. So, before you set the date of the wedding, make sure you have enough time left to plan it. Also, put aside few extra weeks to unwind or tackle any tasks that don’t go as per plan. 

Be organized to the last detail

From the minute you start your wedding plans, use an organized approach for everything you do. Create an online journal and enter your wedding planning timeline into it. Find the essential wedding planning timeline with all the relevant tasks in this article. Find the best wedding planning software apps to help you with your wedding here. There are plenty of project management software out that are immensely helpful. Trello is one of them. Choose the right one for your needs and start using it right away. Make sure to use and update the information you collect or create on a regular basis. Edit out unnecessary items to keep it under control. Set aside time for this daily, so you are up-to-date with all that is relevant and aren’t overwhelmed with information overload.

Work with only professional wedding services

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Weddings are huge events, and not the place to experiment with novices. One of the biggest advantages of choosing professional wedding services is the efficiency they bring to a job. Most professional wedding service experts have been in the industry for long. They have the expertise and resources to handle their tasks with minimum supervision.

With previous experience, they know how much time it takes to complete a job. Thus, they can set your expectations correctly. The risk of things going wrong are fewer. More importantly, you have a minimum guarantee. You could save money by choosing a new vendor or entrusting a task to friends or family. However, the likelihood of hassles along the way is higher.

Spend some time on reviews

Unless you have personally experienced the service a wedding vendor provides or have a referral from an acquaintance, you should spend time on finding honest reviews of the service. Most vendors advertise themselves as the best of the lot. Some of them may even have certifications and testimonials on their websites. However, don’t simply rely on this information to book their services.

Check and read reviews, ask the vendor to refer you to  previous clients and objectively scrutinize the information available about them. The time you spend on this is worth the effort. It will make all the difference in averting stress at the last minute, when you should enjoy your special day.

Stop thinking about the wedding all-the-time

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I know this is easier said than done! Nevertheless, the key to efficiently planning your wedding is not obsessing over it all the time. When you worry about your wedding all the time, it prevents you from concentrating on your other responsibilities. This will affect your overall efficiency and productivity. As a consequence, wedding planning will become stressful and no longer be fun.

Do not dedicate all your free and leisure time to wedding planning, as this will be overdoing it. Set aside a specific time during the day to fully engage in wedding planning. As you get closer to the wedding, you can spend more time on wedding plans. Do this in an organized manner and you can cover all plans within the available time frame. It is also a good idea to fix a regular time when you and your partner will discuss wedding-related stuff. When he knows in advance, he can  focus on the tasks at hand during the appointed time.

Think seriously about hiring a wedding planner

If there is little time left, you may be better off hiring a wedding planner to ensure your wedding is a success. With a wedding planner at your service, you have a person who is entirely dedicated to your wedding. They will run around on your behalf and do the million little things that you may otherwise overlook. It will also alleviate your stress to a great extent, as you needn’t constantly worry about what you may have missed.

Wedding planners can conduct vendor interviews or may even have recommended vendors for different jobs. This will save you valuable time and effort. Being professionals in the field, they also have the ability of handling any last-minute issues that may crop up.

Plan everything in detail

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Do every activity, from shopping for your wedding dress to visiting the venue or booking a florist should after due research. Dedicate the first few days to research all the available options. I suggest that you set up a binder to collect and compile all information. Alternately, have a folder on your desktop with separate folders for each factor. Collate information you obtain into different categories promptly, and it will help you avoid confusion in future.

This type of an organized arrangement will also prepare you well for the different tasks to handle. Also remember that breaking down each wedding planning task into smaller sub-tasks makes it more manageable and easier to execute.

Delegate responsibilities

Enlist the help of family, friends and anyone eager to help you out. If you have a full-time engagement, there are limitations to the amount of free time you have in a day. If you try to do everything about the wedding yourself, there is a greater chance of overlooking certain things. This can double the stress at a later stage.

It isn’t unusual for overwhelmed brides who do more than their fair share of work to miss work deadlines and receive poor quality work reviews as a result of all the wedding planning. Prevent such a situation by trusting part of your plans to efficient and trustworthy acquaintances. Delegate duties to your bridesmaids, your fiance and parents and watch things run smoothly.

Have reasonable deadlines

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Every wedding planning task should have a deadline. Work with the timeline I suggested earlier to understand which tasks you should do earlier, and which of them can wait till later. Avoid waiting till the last minute to do anything. The earlier you finish your responsibilities, the sooner you can relax and enjoy the days leading up to the wedding.

When setting deadlines, don’t forget to incorporate some buffer time just in case things don’t progress as planned. Be flexible with plans. Don’t forget to shuffle and re-organize your plans and get things done early if there are gaps in schedule. Your to-do list should constantly be updated and edited to accommodate any changes. Only then will you have everything covered well in time for the wedding.

Know the rules

You have to plan your wedding even if you work full-time. So, although it is tempting to squeeze in some planning into your work day, exercise caution. In fact, this survey on the Forbes website suggests that almost 89% of women plan their weddings on company time. Nevertheless, remember that every company has their own rules about how you use the company resources like computers and the internet for personal needs. This includes wedding planning. There may also be websites that aren’t allowed on work computers.

Before you start dedicating your free time at work to planning your wedding, it may be a good idea to check out what your company policies are. Even if your supervisor doesn’t mind, make sure you don’t overdo your wedding planning during work hours. If your online activity is being closely monitored and watched, it is best if you exercise caution.

But make the most of free time at work

Although you shouldn’t ideally plan your wedding during your work hours, there are some things you can fit into your breaks on work days or on the commute to and from work. Check out vendor reviews, go through and edit your to-do lists, and make calls to book appointments or check on updates during the few minutes you take off work. Vendor phone calls are in fact, one of the most important tasks you can do when you have few free minutes. It doesn’t take too long, and you can fit it into the earlier part of the day before you get involved in any important work. Plus, you will not be using the company’s computer for personal needs this way. So, your boss shouldn’t be able to complain.

Use your lunch hour and tea breaks to browse through wedding pics online or scan magazines for inspiration. Not only will this help you shortlist any interesting choices, it will not eat into your work time and negatively affect your productivity at work.

Set achievable goals

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One of the reasons many brides overwhelm themselves with wedding planning is that they set expectations that are difficult to meet. Instead of that, try to understand your limitations and plan your activities accordingly. If you spend ten hours at work, be reasonable about the amount of time you can spend on wedding plans after this workday. Set your goals accordingly and avoid disappointment. Take time off work if required, or dedicate the weekend to wedding planning.

Unwind and step away from the wedding once in a while

Don’t let the wedding planning stress affect you adversely. As impossible as it may sound, you need to completely break away from all the planning once in a while to tackle it efficiently. Take a break when you do absolutely nothing related to the wedding. You will find yourself energized and rejuvenated for the tasks that remain.

Plan your breaks according to your convenience, but fit it into your wedding planning timeline. Either enjoy some time to yourself or invite the company of your fiance or friends to help you forget about the wedding for a bit. Trust me, the distraction will be helpful and make you eager to continue from where you left it.

Best for Bride understands every need of a bride, and is the perfect destination where bridal dreams come true. Whether you will be a fairy tale princess or a stylish modern bride on your special day, you are sure to find the dress of your dreams in our vast designer collections. Come visit us at one of our four store locations in Canada, or shop online from our amazing bridal dress collection. With bridal accessories, party favors, invitations and even dresses for the rest of the bridal party, we make your job efficient and easy. Tune into the Best for Bride website today to take a look at what we have on offer.

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Bridal pant suits, tiered skirts and other unique wedding dress styles we love

One of the best things about wedding fashion is that it is constantly evolving. Although the traditional layered wedding gown is still popular, bridal dress designers also impress us with unusual and unexpected trends for brides who want something different for their wedding day. The latest trends in wedding dresses are so unusually interesting that I wouldn’t be surprised if many of them would continue to be favorites season after season. Take the 3-D floral trend for instance. It made its appearance several years ago, and still continues to be a big hit. This charming design feature has been played with in different ways, extended to other motifs of nature and even tried out in colors and bigger proportions. And one thing is clear, the trend is here to stay.

There are many more design features that have been bookmarked by many brides and wedding fashion enthusiasts, long before they set their wedding dates. Let us explore this list of the unique and interesting wedding dress styles that are anything but traditional, but impressive enough to stay.

Bridal Pant Suits

With same-sex weddings growing common these days, bridal pant suits which rose to fame in 2014, continue to be favored by many couples. It is not only for lesbian brides, though. Many brides choose them for their practicality and style factor. In fact, the chances are high for any bride who isn’t used to wearing dresses to choose a pantsuit over a poufy wedding dress. And the modern designs are stylish and dressy enough for the bride to look special on her big day. One of the most popular choices is divided skirts, where the pantsuit looks super-chic and very bridal. Well-tailored suits with elegant embellishments are equally attractive. We have also noticed the unusual pairing of the pantsuit with the very feminine veil as the accessory of choice for a “tradition meets modern” bridal statement.

Two-in-one wedding dresses

We have lost track of the number of times we have been asked for dresses that allow a bride to easily transform from a traditional bride at the wedding ceremony to a stylish diva for the wedding reception. Two-in-one wedding dresses are our go-to solution in such situations. Dubbed the two-fer, these dresses feature an overlay skirt over a figure-fitting silhouette like the mermaid. The overlay skirt is often elaborate and richly layered, so it has the appearance of a rich ball gown. This is usually perfect for a traditional wedding ceremony and a princess look for the bride. Post the wedding ceremony, all the bride has to do is take off the overlay skirt, and she has a new look for the reception. Much easier than changing into a whole new gown, don’t you think? Also, it is more economical than spending double on two gowns.

Tiered wedding skirts

Tiered wedding skirts are the happy balance between ball gowns and modern wedding dress styles. They have the drama of the ball gown, but are more sophisticated and look contemporary. Tiers are mostly on A-line and fit and flare silhouettes like the mermaid or trumpet. They are beautiful in every fabric but common in lace, satin and tulle. Tiered skirts are often paired with sweetheart and strapless necklines, adding to the dramatic effect. They may also be embellished with scalloped details at the edges or ruffles. Designers have also tried unusual embellishments like feathers and fringes in tiered wedding skirts. However, these choices are better suited for bold brides than conventional brides.

Muted shades of pink

Ever since blush became a widely sought-after bridesmaid dress color, muted shades of pink have stolen many a bride’s heart. Blush, in particular, is a favorite as it has a delicate, feminine charm. The color is soft, so many brides can safely choose it in their bridal dresses and not deviate too far from traditional white. Another charming factor about this color is that it looks good on most complexions. It is also the perfect base colour for lace details like floral icons and others to pop up against. Blush renders itself beautifully to both modern and vintage wedding dress designs. Whether it is in a ruffled wedding dress skirt or a modern minimalist silhouette, this dainty color, as well as other subtle shades of pink, are big hits in the bridal world. We do not see them disappearing from the scene anytime soon.

Plunging necklines

Definitely a choice for the bold and daring bride, plunging necklines are no longer the fashion statements of celebrities on the red carpet. Plunging V-necklines, daringly low scoops and deep keyhole designs are all hot trends on the bridal fashion scene. The widespread interest in the reinvention of these styles and the number of collections featuring this detail tell us that more and more women are choosing to sport this bold style feature in their wedding dresses. To avert any potential disaster, all that is necessary is to add a sheer modesty piece to the neckline. Nevertheless, after the daringly low-back details that were once a hit on the bridal scene, plunging necklines are a hot and happening thing. Plunging necklines are often featured with straps or sleeveless dresses, adding a finishing touch to the glamorous detail.

Asymmetrical hemlines

Interesting elements like high-low wedding dress hemlines instantly add a touch of drama to the bridal look. This is a feature that has not just gained favor in the general fashion scene, but has influenced wedding fashion as well. High-low hemlines may be used in short or long gowns. It can also be added as a feature that appears over the regular wedding skirt. Asymmetrical hemlines usually involve more fabric to create the flowy effect, and are commonly paired with A-line dress styles, sheaths or fit and flare silhouettes for maximum impact. This is a great choice for casual-theme weddings where the bride wants a dress that isn’t too formal but looks bridal enough.

Off-the-shoulder neckline

A sexy dress feature that allows the bride to show off her well-toned shoulders and collar bones, the off-the-shoulder neckline looks beautiful on wedding gowns. The exposed shoulders and neckline balance out poufy wedding dress skirts. Off-the-shoulder necklines are very feminine, and may be paired with any dress silhouette. It has a princess look when paired with ball gown skirts and A-line dresses, whereas it looks stylish and modern when paired with sheaths and fit and flare silhouettes. The neckline may either feature short sleeves or be combined with long full sleeves for a vintage look. This neckline feature has been added to both lace gowns as well as satin and silk wedding dresses. It may also be paired with a draped bodice or an embellished one in different designs.

Illusion details on sleeves

Illusion necklines were and continue to be a bridal favorite. Although the sleeve length has varied from full-sleeves to strapless styles and those in between, there are always brides who want to look modest and sport wedding dresses with sleeves that cover their arms. Then, brides also want sleeves because their arms are too thick or too skinny to show-off. Illusion sleeve details are a happy middle ground between fully covered and very modest styles and the strapless style that reveals arms all the way from the shoulders to the fingers. Illusion sleeves are usually executed in lace, and have a delicate feminine appeal. This feature is great for formal wedding styles and looks good on both slender and curvy brides. The details may range from intricate lace structures to widely dispersed and scattered details. It can also have embellishments or be simple.

Modern minimalist

Less is more for the modern minimalist bride. Non-fussy, uncluttered wedding gowns do not have to be simple and boring. Instead, they can be stunning and splendid, despite their simplicity. Minimalist wedding dresses allow brides to draw focus to other aspects of their wedding trousseau, like their jewelry and accessories. Sleek and simple modern silhouettes usually focus on enhancing the bride’s natural beauty by drawing attention to her best assets in an obvious way. The most popular silhouettes are fit and flare and column, which either snugly fit the body curves or create the illusion of more curves than the lady possesses. Minimalist dresses may also feature selected embellishments that are vivid and stylish. This is a great pick for the bride who wants her personality to shine through the attire she sports on this important day in her life.

Defined waistlines

More brides today are determined to get in shape and look their best on their wedding days. And when they have great bodies to show off, it is only imperative that they draw attention to the smallest and most attractive of their assets, like a slim waistline. Wedding dresses with emphasized waistlines are just as popular as accessories like bows, sashes and waistbands that define the waistline clearly. This feature is common on not only poufy wedding dresses, but the demarcation of the waistline is even incorporated into fit and flare dresses where there usually is no clear waistline. One of the most exciting factors about defining the waistline specifically is that it gives the dress a youthful appearance. So, although dropped waistlines and empire styles are still sough after by many brides, dresses which highlight slender waists and even draw attention to it are favored by brides who are in good shape in time for their wedding.

Fantastic back details

This is one trend that we cannot get enough of. Every year, wedding designers outdo themselves by presenting us with wedding dresses featuring fantastic back details. The mysterious charm of an ornate back detail is unbeatable, and it is a must-have for every bride on her special day. From fabulous illusion detailing to tasteful lace cut-outs, embellished details, low-cut backs and keyhole designs, details in the back easily impress. It is also an interesting way of showing of your sexy side without worrying about a wardrobe disaster. To highlight back details, the bride must ideally choose a hairstyle that doesn’t cover up the essential details. It may also be hidden when you wear a veil. So, if you choose a dress with a fantastic back, make sure to take off the veil after the ceremony and give it the attention it deserves. Fantastic back details are also stand-out features in bridal and couple portraits. So make sure your photographer pays attention to this detail, if your dress features it.

Over the recent years, many trends have appeared and disappeared. While going with the trend is fun, remember that your wedding dress will be the focal point in your wedding album in future years. It may perhaps even be passed down through generations, and you always want to look classic and timeless in them. We believe that the trends we listed here today are those that will help you look stylish. In short, these are the trends that are bound to be repeated time and again and never go out of fashion.

So, please tell us which of these dress features you like the most. Have you chosen any of them in your wedding dress?

For more wedding dresses and a fantastic selection to make your pick from, check out this link to our wedding dress collections at Best for Bride. From traditional and vintage to modern and contemporary dresses, we have all the dresses you can dream of. Book your appointment with us today, and visit any of our locations in Canada to make your wedding dress dreams come true. And if you are a bride from outside Canada, try our online shopping option for a reliable experience.

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Common wedding budget mistakes most couples make

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The wedding budget is the single entity that determines everything about your wedding. Everything from your beautiful wedding gown to the florist, caterers and even wedding favours depends on the funds you put aside for your wedding plans, and how you distribute it among different components.

When stepping into the new chapter of your life as a newlywed couple, you certainly do not want it to be with debt that you will struggle to settle. Unfortunately, many couples have a grand wedding and later struggle with their finances. Then there are also occasions when couples find themselves spending much more than they anticipated on their wedding. This is because of a lack of proper planning. Plan the wedding budget sensibly, and you can avoid this situation.

Let us take a close look at the common wedding budget mistakes many couples make and how you can avoid them.

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Not fixing your priorities

Every couple wants a fantastic wedding. Nevertheless, you have to make at least a few compromises, if you are on a budget. Nonetheless, you can plan the best possible options for your budget by fixing your priorities. First, settle on a realistic wedding budget. For this, you may have to do some research on the average cost for each wedding planning aspect instead of just picking a number at random. Next, list the order of preference for each of them. This way, you can allocate more funds to those at the top of your list and be thrifty about the ones at the bottom.

Not figuring in the smaller, but essential items

A real bride reveals in this article, that one of the biggest mistakes she made at her wedding was overlooking the small items that were still essential to the overall wedding picture. She isn’t alone, as many brides who do most of the planning themselves forget to factor in certain items. It isn’t easy when they later have to find the funds to meet these expenses. Even the smallest dollar purchases will quickly add up. So, you shouldn’t overlook any factor when calculating your budget. Checklists are a big help in this situation. Make comprehensive checklists for every single item you can think of, for your wedding. Cross-check with ready-to-use checklists online and also have someone else take a look at them, just in case you may have missed something. Factoring in every likely expense will help you avoid going over budget.

Not figuring in the extras for bigger purchases

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For many items like your wedding gown, the price on the label isn’t the final figure you will pay for. There are extras for alterations, accessories, inner-wear and sometimes delivery charges. When you allocate a budget for such an item, make sure you account for these extras as well. Obtain a general idea of how much the extras will cost. Plan the actual budget for the main item after deducting these charges, and you will not end up spending more than you actually intended to.

Last-minute shopping and bookings

The closer you book venues and vendors to the date of your wedding, the higher the cost you will incur. Start your planning early, and you will have plenty of time to scout around for the best deals. You will also have time to research and weigh options and find the most budget-friendly ones. Booking early will also allow you to get the best vendors and deals for your wedding. Where wedding dresses are concerned, rush charges are significantly higher and you will again have to pay extra for alterations at short notice. Once you know your wedding day, don’t delay wedding dress shopping. Make sure you shop for your dress at least six months in advance. Similarly book your venue, band, caterers, photographers, florist and other vendors as soon as you finalize the wedding theme and decide on what you want.

Trying to save with DIY but ending up with more than you can handle

One thing many brides tend to overlook is the scale of the wedding. Although they may be capable of handling DIY details or have friends and relatives who are good bakers, florists or venue decorators, they may not have the resources or abilities to handle the task on large scale. When a DIY disaster occurs at the last possible moment, the only option is to get the available alternative, usually at a very high price. Avoid this costly mistake by being realistic about what you can actually handle. Also, exercise caution when entrusting a wedding task to someone you know. Make sure that they are capable of handling it before handing it to them.

Not paying proper attention to vendor contracts

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Never ever assume anything on a contract, but clarify every single doubt. Also, make sure that you dedicate enough time to reading every detail on your contracts, and avoid overlooking anything essential. Different vendors offer different services in their packages. So, although one vendor may offer delivery and set up of your cake, another may not for the same price. Similar extras are wine corkage charges, cake serving charges, taking down of décor and clearing tables. The same applies to your photographer and band too. It is always best to clarify all these little details before you sign the contract and book the vendor. Make sure you know how many hours or what all services are included in the package, so you don’t end up paying extra to get the service you want, at the last minute. Here is a list of the common hidden costs that you may want to consider seriously. 

Picking vendors and services without comparing rates

Unless you are absolutely particular that you must have a certain vendor for your wedding, you should check around for the best deals for your budget. Compare deals, packages and service quality to find the right deals that give you what you want. Although you shouldn’t compromise on quality for the price, save the greater chunk of your budget for your priorities and adjust with what will fit the bill for the rest. If you come across a deal that seems too good to be true, make sure you consider the pros and cons before making your final decision. Don’t be too hasty to fix a deal. Negotiate the prices, look for discount options or referrals, and you can make your budget work further for your needs.

Giving in to pressure

Many couples end up spending more than they should, just because people advise them that they need something that they really do not. This can be a budget-buster. So, rather than giving in to pressure, do your research and know what you want and whether it is needed to realize your wedding vision. There are few “must-haves” in a wedding, and these should be what are actually important to you. Unless the people who push you into inviting more guests, putting up a photo booth or splurging on expensive wedding favours are actually contributing to the cost for it, you do not have to oblige.

Buying more than you actually need

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It is always safer to have a little extra than you actually accounted for, but don’t take it to the extreme. Although a few extra invitations and wedding favours may be a good idea, you do not need extra hundreds of them, just in case. Think of every aspect thoroughly, so you do not make a mistake when calculating numbers. For invitations, think of how many families will be attending, rather than the total number of people. You do not need separate invitations for members of the same family. So, think of such relevant details and you can save yourself quite some money on these unnecessary expenses.

Last-minute changes to the plan

If there is one thing that every couple should do, it has a clear idea of what they want before they set out to do it. Vendors may suggest changes, and friends may encourage you to take things a little further, but only you know what you want and what you can afford. Avoid falling for temptation and making last-minute changes that will cost you dearly. You can be flexible and make small variations down the line, but don’t go for a major overhaul as the unexpected expenses in such cases will quickly add up and turn out to be disastrous.

A guest list that gets out of hand

Your wedding expenses are directly linked to the number of people who will attend. So, have a good grip on your guest list, and you shouldn’t go over budget. One of your first wedding planning decisions should be the number of people you can afford to have. Not only should you factor in your wedding priorities when distributing your funds, you should also consider whether this type of wedding will be meaningful to you. Once you arrive at a decision, stick to it. You don’t have to be extra-generous to satisfy your friends or family, nor do you have to feel guilty about having the wedding you can afford. Some decisions are tough, but you have to put your foot down where it is necessary for your own good. This is one such situation.

Not exploring your options

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There are many ideas that will take your budget further. It is unfortunate that very few couples explore such options. Simple ideas like serving three-fourth portions instead of full cake slices, or having a selection of local wines instead of an open bar will make a small difference in the overall impact of the wedding. However, it will help your savings even while you can achieve similar results. You can also look to your vendors for creative but thrifty solutions to your various needs. As professionals who have worked at many weddings before, they should have plenty of ideas. Wedding planners are usually experts who can come up with creative and budget-friendly solutions for several wedding planning aspects. Look around for budget-friendly options, at least for your lower priorities. Your guests are less likely to notice the difference, and you can have the wedding you desire for much lesser.

Always choosing the safe option

When you are on a tight budget, it may be better to think out of the box than go with the conventional (expensive!) choice. If you are ready to take the risk, it is likely that you will find several good deals in unexpected places. One instance is where your hair and makeup are concerned. You can always have your hair and makeup was done by a professional artist. However, you can also consider booking your appointment with a beauty school and enjoy the same outcome. Similarly, you do not need an expensive vintage car to leave your reception in. Instead, deck up any car with some creative décor and it will be just as impressive. One of the best things about thinking creatively is that it allows you to have unique wedding elements that will make your wedding memorable.

Forgetting about tipping vendors

Many things about weddings still follow certain etiquette rules. Wedding tipping is one of them. Although it is now largely considered a personal decision, tipping is customary. Unless a vendor’s service charge includes gratuity, or the person performing the service is the owner himself, it is common practice to tip the people serving at your wedding. Similarly, delivery drivers are also normally tipped for their service. This should give you a good idea of how much you should allocate for this factor. 

Avoid these common mistakes and your wedding should progress without too many hassles in the budget department. For budget wedding dresses, and great deals and offers to make the most of your wedding dress budget, visit this link to our clearance and sale section on Best for Bride—the one-stop shopping destination for today’s bride.