Choosing a wedding dress can be a daunting task. With so many styles and options available, how do you know where to start? And once you’ve found the perfect dress, what about the accessories? How do you know which ones will complete your look without going over budget?
Fear not! This guide is here to help. In it, we’ll explore the different types of wedding dresses and accessories available, as well as some tips on how to find the perfect match for your big day. So whether you’re just starting to browse or you’ve already got a few contenders in mind, read on for some helpful advice.
Flowers are not just the universal gift that everyone appreciates. Flowers can also be used in wedding bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, and decorations for the reception hall. No matter what type of flower you like, there is sure to be something that works for your wedding theme and color scheme. Here are popular flowers to choose from.
Every bride usually chooses this dress after much thought and deliberation. Unfortunately, it is often one of the most significant wedding day expenditures. So, isn’t it rather sad that you will wear this dress just once?
So, on the special occasion that is your wedding, it is only fitting that you show it off to the maximum. Also, there is a way to immortalize this dress forever, and that is through your wedding photos. Gorgeous pictures of your beautiful wedding gown, taken from all the right angles, will serve as beautiful souvenirs of your lovely dress. Discuss the options to capture your wedding dress’s full glory with your photographer. Or think up shots that will highlight your dress and share this list with your photographer.
Here are some of our ideas to inspire you to get the best possible shots of your wedding dress.
Your must-have list of wedding dress photos
The classic shot of the dress on the hanger
Give your wedding dress its moment of glory when your photographer captures its magnificence all by itself. Whether your wedding dress is an opulent ball gown or a minimalist sheath, it deserves to be shown off all by itself in your wedding album. All you need is the perfect spot to display it and a beautiful hanger to hold it upright. Choose from silk-draped hangers, fancy vintage hangers and colourful beauties that match the tone of your wedding theme for more impact. Your photographer will do the rest. More ideas here on the Junebugs Wedding blog. Hang it up against a mirror or between two windows in a clean and uncluttered location to capture every detail in its full glory.
Wedding dress with bridal accessories
If you aren’t too fond of the wedding dress on the hanger idea, you can instead have it photographed with the rest of your wedding day accessories. Create the perfect arrangement of your bridal bouquet, shoes, wedding bands and jewelry, and your photographer can shoot it with your wedding dress in the backdrop. Here the focus will be shared on all the items that will complete your transformation into a beautiful bride. Although the wedding gown will not be the center of attention, it will still receive its due attention.
Being zipped or buttoned up
Whether your wedding dress has buttons, zippers, clasps or a corset at the back, have a close-up shot of your wedding dress while it is being put into place. This is usually the last step of wearing your wedding dress. The image of it can bring back memories of the entire process and remind you of the many emotions you went through at the time. So, make sure you have this sentimental image in your album.
The side-shot
When you ask your photographer to get a full-length profile picture, capture your dress from a different perspective. Identify your better side of the face, and show this to the camera. You can even include accessories like the veil and bouquet to enhance the impact of this photograph. Then, look away from the camera and focus your gaze on a distant object to make this a masterpiece photo.
Photos with your bridal party
There will be a lot going on while you get ready. Your bridesmaids will (hopefully) fuss over you as you wear your wedding dress and accessories. Ask your photographer to document the action and excitement of the scene since it will be a memorable picture. Have the image taken when your bridesmaids help you step into your shoes, straighten your train or set the veil. It would be best if your bridesmaids were also dressed in their respective attires at the time to get the full effect.
Full-length portrait
A full-size photograph in your gown will be a great addition to your album. It will capture the same effect that your guests experience when they see you for the first time on your wedding day. Try to have this photo before you wear your veil, so the sheer layers of your cover don’t hide these details. Pick a dramatic setting for the image, which is brightly lit with natural light. If your venue has a spectacular view, make this your backdrop. Else, pose before a portrait or in an outdoor location to get stylish pictures.
Image of the back
Many modern dresses have showstopper back details like beautiful keyhole or illusion designs, stunning fabric button trains or even low-cut daring information. If your dress has any unique modern style elements in the back, ensure it is captured in your wedding photos. For this, have a picture taken as you face away from the camera. This will also draw attention to your hairstyle and any hair accessories you may have specially chosen for the occasion.
Photo of the wedding dress skirt
If your wedding dress has an exciting skirt and train, highlight it in your photographs with a suitable picture. Whether the skirt features tiered details, has a beautiful hemline or has perfect ruffles, show it from the right angle in an image. Try sitting down with your dress spread around you to capture the effect of a full skirt in its glory. For a ball gown skirt or one with ruffles, you can also sit with your feet up and the skirt spread out to display the various details. This idea is perfect for lace dresses.
Image of the fanned-out train.
If the dress has a long train, an image from the back with the train spread out to its full length will showcase its effect. This will also look great if the pictures are taken as you climb a staircase. The impact of the train and skirt will be magnified when taken from above or below and also be unique for the aerial positioning of the shot. For a longer train, get the full impact directly from the back.
With the veil
The veil is often one of the most striking bridal accessories that instantly enhance the bridal look. If your outfit includes a cover, get a picture of yourself in it. Lifting the veil also is a magical moment that makes for a fantastic photo. Ask your photographer to capture the effect of the cover on the dress from different angles and find the one that is most appealing to include in your album.
Zoomed-in image of intricate details
If your dress features intricate beading, lace appliques or embellishments, a close-up shot of these intricate details will capture it well. It is a good idea to look closely at your dress and find out which pieces you love the most. Please share this information with your photographer, so he can do justice to the shot by focusing on that one unique feature of the dress.
Above-the-waist shot
The neckline and waist add definition to a wedding dress. Let these features get their place in the spotlight with a photograph of the bodice. Zoom in on this area and include jewelry like necklaces or earrings for the full effect. An aerial image will also create a unique perspective and make it an exciting picture.
With the groom holding you
There is immense scope to experiment with this shot. You can even showcase the back of your dress in this shot as you face away from the camera. Include your bouquet for a pop of colour and prop that will work well in the setting. Other ideas are to hold hands and walk while the images are captured. Or sit in a strategic position, highlighting your dress’s direct focus.
An outdoor shot
Make the most of the natural lighting to get a beautiful portrait. Choose the golden hour, an hour before or after dawn and dusk, for the best pictures. Since the natural light at these times of the day is most flattering, your images will turn out great. If it is impossible to plan an outdoor shot at these times, make sure you step outdoors for a few pictures when there is plenty of natural light. Or choose a room with a window through which natural light streams in to get photos with similar effects.
Bridesmaids holding the train
Take a look at this picture, and I won’t have to say anything more to convince you. This will be a beautiful and classic picture of your wedding day. As you stride forward, have your bridesmaids pick up your train and hold it visible from all sides. This will enhance the beauty of your dress and create beautiful imagery with the contrast in colour with that of your wedding party.
Photo with your bouquet
This is one picture that cannot go wrong. Let the pure white colour of your dress pop against the bright colours of your bouquet when the image focuses on your dress and the smell in your arms. Unless it is a close-up shot, ensure that this image is taken in a clean backdrop with few other distractions. The bouquet should preferably be the only colourful element in the entire frame to capture the impact with full effect. Such photos are beautiful if there are saturated colours in the bouquet. However, your photographer may also be able to adjust the settings to make this picture unusually attractive.
Bride looking in the mirror
This is another wedding dress shot that is sure to be beautiful. The photograph will focus on the image in the mirror and the real bride with less clarity. Black and white photos of this scene will be stunning, and this is one you should consider. Make sure the mirror is clear, the surface below it uncluttered, and the background clean for the image to look its best.
On the dance floor
This is the chance to have yourself photographed at an angle that emphasizes the beauty of the dress while you dance with your husband. The dance floor, especially if it is a reflective surface, will form a beautiful backdrop when your photographer clicks the image from a low angle. A talented photographer will be able to capture this emotional moment with perfection. It will also be an opportunity to showcase your dress from a different position and highlight its statement features.
Walking away with your husband
This is a very symbolic photo and one that creates a nostalgic image. While the picture will also show off the back of your dress, it will help you relive the unique emotions you felt as you stepped into the new chapter of your life. So, make sure your photographer captures it.
Once you get your hands on your unique wedding dress, you may feel that no number of photos is enough to capture the beauty of the dress. While that is true, including it from all possible angles is the next closest thing you can do. Discuss the specific features of your clothing with your photographer, so he can ensure no detail is missed in the photographs.
For photogenic wedding dresses that are perfect for your special day, visit our bridal gallery at Best for Bride. With a wide range of designer wedding dress collections suitable for any taste, budget and body type, you will have no trouble finding your dream dress at our store. Visit our website today to shortlist your favourites.
Gorgeous flower arrangements are an inevitable part of a picture-perfect wedding. Flowers have the amazing ability to transform and uplift the entire wedding scene, making even a drab location picturesque. However, flowers are expensive and your floral budget can quickly get out-of-hand, unless you plan well.
Fortunately, it is possible to stay within budget and still have fabulous floral décor at your wedding. Here are our insider tips to help you stretch your floral budget and get great value for the money you invest.
1.Highlight bigger blooms
Larger blooms are not only more dramatic, they cover more space. So, you will need fewer large blooms to complete floral arrangements, and they will create a strong impact. Discuss with your florist to find out which blooms are in season at the time of your wedding. Design your floral décor with the largest of these, and there should be significant cuts in overall cost. A larger flower like an orchid may be pricier than roses. However, with the larger size you will need fewer of them to complete the arrangement. Sunflowers, orchids and hydrangeas are other good choices for maximum impact and economical prices.
2.Keep your centerpieces simple
Although your centrepieces are important, finding budget-friendly choices that pack a punch isn’t too difficult. Expensive exotic flower installations can eat into your budget. However, a similar impact can be achieved with cheaper choices. Focus on the colours in the design. Your florist can suggest economical choices that will tie with your theme. You can also use few exotic flowers and complete the rest of the arrangement with cheaper seasonal fare.
3.Budget-friendly choices work for designs that are seen from far
While your centerpieces will be viewed up-close, other parts of your floral décor won’t receive too much focus. For instance, the flowers on the altar or lining the edges of the aisle or hall will not be scrutinized from too close. Hence, use cheaper flowers in these arrangements to save money. Filler flowers like carnations are saturated with color and hence the best choice for pops of color. However, these are cheaper than roses. Seen from afar, your guests won’t be able to make out the difference. As long as the effect is similar, it won’t matter whether you used carnations or roses in the actual arrangement.
4.Opt for seasonal and local blooms
This is often the cheapest way to get fantastic blooms. Since local flowers are easily available, transportation costs are minimum. Also, since local produce is fresh, it will look amazing. Seasonal blooms are another good way to keep your costs down. If you must have off-season varieties in your floral décor, prepare to spend extra as they have to be shipped from elsewhere. Off-season flowers may not hold up well, in the weather conditions at the time of your wedding. So, avoid the risk and splurge on local and season flowers instead.
5.Don’t splurge on the bridesmaids bouquets
The more bridesmaids you have, the more money you will have to spend on their bouquets. The prices can quickly add up, and its value isn’t really justified. Instead, invest in a spectacular bridal bouquet. Then plan your bridesmaids bouquets as miniature versions that aren’t too costly. Your florist can whip up alternatives that match yours. Once again, focus on the colors and design instead of the actual flowers in the bouquet.
6.Find alternatives to corsages
Corsages are pretty pricey, since there is a lot of effort involved in creating them. Unless you are very particular about having them, find an alternative to serve the purpose. Use single flowers without fillers, and they will cost less. Your Wedding blog suggests several alternative corsage options from feathers to starfish and even buttons. We think this is a great way to tie it to the theme of your wedding, while deviating from the traditional floral corsage idea with an unexpected twist. Isn’t it a great way to get noticed? Check it out and get inspired.
7.Add extra greenery
Have you ever realized that the greens in your bouquet are rather inexpensive when compared to the blooms? Make the most of this factor, by choosing more greens and adding flowers as accents in your bouquet. Ivory or ferns cost far less, but fill space. They also add beautiful texture to floral bouquets, enhancing its appeal. So, use lush greenery in your bouquet and centerpieces. You will need fewer blooms, but have floral arrangements of noticeable size and impact. So, choose from foliage , herbs and ferns to add a lush effect to your bouquets for much lesser.
8.Add details like ribbons or lace
Simple additions to your flower bouquet, like a ribbon or lace will help it appear larger. It is also a romantic addition that will enhance the appeal of your bouquets. The same applies to centerpieces as well. Satin ribbons add saturated pops of color that will enhance the beauty of your flower arrangements. Lace adds a romantic note. So, these are classy choices that will help you create a better looking flower arrangement sans the cost.
9.Add a unique touch to your décor with non-floral centerpieces
Expensive flower arrangements with exotic blooms are always impressive. Nevertheless, this isn’t the only way to create impact. You can achieve the same effect by adding few cheaper and unusual items. You can find elements that tie to your chosen theme. The best part is that such items can also be reused in your home décor later. Take a look at this article on the Bridal Guide for some interesting suggestions along these lines. From Bird cages for garden weddings and rustic themes to pin wheels for outdoor weddings, there are plenty of amusing ideas to borrow and use.
10.Choose airy flowers that add bulk to arrangements
Similar to adding foliage to increase the bulk of your floral arrangement, add bunches of light and airy blooms to enhance the volume of the entire arrangement without costing much. Wispy strands of baby breath act as great fillers for bouquets and centerpieces. A single stem will occupy significantly more space than a single flower. Hence, this is one option to explore. Your florist can suggest more such options that are pretty and light and create the effect you desire.
11.Reuse and re-purpose to get the most out of your wedding flowers
In most cases, you will have your wedding ceremony at one location and the wedding reception in another location. Although it may be the same venue, your reception hall is likely different from the one for the wedding ceremony. In such cases, the common practice is to set up separate floral arrangements at either spot. However, the smarter option is to reuse the same flowers at the second location. Arrange to transfer the flowers from the first location to the second, and you will only have to pay the transfer cost. You will have to employ help to do this quickly and discretely after the ceremony. Plan this movement carefully before the wedding day, so it progresses smoothly on the day.
12.Go for non-floral bouquet options
Many substitutes for real flowers look just as good, or perhaps even better. Spend less by replacing your bridal bouquet and that of your bridesmaids with non-floral options. From fabric flowers to paper flowers, brooches, lace and even feathers, explore the variety of options available. There are endless options as long as you are flexible. The best part is that you will also have an unforgettable accessory that your guests are bound to remember. So, let your creative juices flow and come up with a non-floral bouquet option that ties to your wedding theme and is unique in every way. For more inspiration and ideas, take a look at this fantastic post on the Martha Stewart website.
13.DIY your wedding bouquets by going for what is cheap and available on the day
If you have time and are crafty, this is the best way to stretch your wedding bouquet budget. Visit the local market the day before your wedding, and find cheap flowers that fit your color scheme. You could even enlist the help of your bridesmaids or friends who are particularly talented in this area. However, remember that this is not an option if you are rather particular about what you want. On the other hand, if you are flexible and ready to go with what is available, this could be the cheapest way to find flowers for your bridal and bridesmaids bouquet at a bargain price. With a little creativity, you can easily find ideas for unique and beautiful bouquets with what is readily available.
14.Add seasonal bounty to the mix
Another idea for a non-floral bouquet is to add seasonal bounty like fruits, foliage and natural décor elements to your centerpieces. When you pair colorful fruits like limes, berries, apples or peaches, you can easily obtain the pop of color you choose. These also add texture and unexpected beauty to an arrangement. The best part is that such seasonal produce is often inexpensive and will bring down your flower budget significantly. Take a look at this post on the Martha Stewart website for some stunning centerpiece arrangements bursting with fruits and even vegetables.
15.Start with the grocery store bouquet
If you must save on your flower budget, look no further than the regular flower bouquets available at grocery stores. These give you the right base to begin your arrangements and designs with. Rearrange the blooms, add a few extra embellishments like brooches, twine or lace for a touch of glamour and you are ready to go. Remember however, that this setup requires extra time. So, don’t embark on this route unless you have the time and skills to get creative and DIY the day before your wedding.
16.Mix and match by cost of flowers
Flexibility is key to achieving the desired impact while staying within budget. If you want your floral arrangements to look lush and expensive, mix and match expensive and inexpensive flowers in your arrangements. One way is to go with alternating arrangements of flowers that fit each category. The other option is to use few large blooms of the expensive flower of your choice, and alternate it with inexpensive flowers as the fillers. Flowers like baby’s breath and daisies are perfect for this option.
Weddings are very expensive, and every penny that you save goes towards your future. So, it is wise to consider your options and make budget cuts wherever possible. Even if flowers are a priority in your wedding plans, you can achieve startling results without breaking the bank. The above suggestions should help you with this. Have we missed anything? If you have any more ideas, don’t forget to share it with us in the comments section below. After all, it is all just a matter of thinking outside the box and finding choices that do not compromise on your main priorities.
For all your bridal needs and advice, our Best for Bride team of experts are here to help. Whether you want a stunning wedding dress, accessories, alterations or wedding day services, visit our website to find the best solutions to bring your wedding day ideas to life.
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