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Blog entries from February 2012
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Spring & Summer Wedding Stationery
By Amy Croffey
We say it time and time again, wedding invitations are so important for your big day as they act as the first point of contact with your guests and remember, first impressions are lasting ones.
Couples are now going to great lengths to make their weddings stand out by sending beautiful, colourful, memorable invitations. Stationery that matches your wedding theme is most popular, whilst other couples opt for simpler colours in order to surprise guests with their wedding colour theme on the big day.
Your perfectly darling, perfectly charming stationery should be sent about eight weeks before your wedding in order for guests to get prepared and make travel and accommodation arrangements if necessary.
Invites by Pretty as a Picture
Invites by GiggleLicious
Invites by Weddings by Legato
Invites by The Invite Inn
Invites by Helen's PaperieRelated Content:
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A Valentine's Day Wedding: Inspiration and Get the Look
It's Valentine's Day tomorrow and we're feeling all warm and fuzzy here in WOL, so we thought we'd put together a little Valentine's Day wedding palette to rosemantic up the WeddingsOnline Blog.
Now as you may already know, red is a bit of an iffy colour for us WOL girls, our view is it's far too easy to OD on when it comes to wedding decor and can be very overpowering in photographs, however, there's nothing better than a few red accents on a Valentine's Day celebration. Afterall, red is the colour of passion, love, and festivity!
Red has a tendency to bleed into white, so go for an off white or cream colour as a staple. Ways to incorporate red in a subtle way are in shoe clips, nail colour or as earrings, or as accents in your decor with small red heart confetti or as table numbers. By Karen Birney
Clockwise from top left: Image of couple via MyWedding.com, Dress by Peppermint Pretty | Bottle and table number image via GreenWeddingShoes.com | Love letters, Cake topper and Cupcake images by Brumley + Wells via GreenWeddingShoes.com | Shoes by Vivienne Westwood (RRP €169) image by Next Exit | Girl with heart-shaped lolly image by Elizabeth MessinaGet the Look
Personalised lyrics tree in frame by Domestic Notions via Etsy.com, $72 | Heart lollipops, Confetti.co.uk, 12 pack �8.99 | Heart table number holder �3.99, Eco table numbers 1-15, �9.99 both Confetti.co.uk | Glittering heart burlap bunting by WhiteHouseBlackCat via Etsy.com, $22 | Heart shaped chalboard, 6 pack by Dazzling Success via Etsy.com, $39.90 | Cardigan with heart buttons by Yumi, �44.77 | Red stitch ribbon 3m, Confetti.co.uk, �3.49 | Heart shaped sky lantern, Confetti.co.uk | Valentine's Day champagne flutes x2 from M&S �15Related Content
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The Sexiest Valentine's Day Nightwear
Underwear shopping for the most part is a time consuming and often a downright boring aspect of being a sexy, well dressed and confident woman. There are seams and wiring to worry about, choices between lace and satin, and usually a decision to be made about whether being comfortable, looking good with clothes on or looking good with clothes off is the most important factor for the day. But every now and again we ladies get to have a bit of fun with what goes on underneath our clothes. Valentine's Day is a perfect time to pick up something a little more special, a little sexier, and perhaps a little more expensive than our typical uniform.
We’re often told that the only way to look sexy is to feel sexy, so this week why not treat yourself to some alluring intimates? We’ve picked some of our favourite pieces below that are bound to make you feel like a real glamour puss. And the best thing? He thinks it’s all for him! By Karen Birney
Main image: Stella McCartney via Asos.com, €251;
Underwear sets by Elle MacPherson Intimates, click for Irish Stockists; Lace pleated midi slip, Topshop.com, �46; Peach Ladder Seam Slip, Topshop.com, �65; Navy Embroidered Kimono, Topshop.com, �68Related Content
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Valentine's Day Gifts for Him
By Amy Croffey
Men don’t generally expect gifts on Valentine’s Day but when (and only when) they lavish you with dinner, flowers and expensive jewellery it is only fair that they get something in return. Right?
Men appreciate functional gifts much more than women do. Who really wants an iron or a new microwave for V Day? Not us! However, gifts like shavers, iPhone cases or coffee machines will be much appreciated by that handsome man in your life. More thoughtful, sentimental gifts like a shirt, a pair of cuff links or some aftershave will also be embraced with open arms as long as you remember that you are buying for him and not for you!
1. Personalised cufflinks from Cool Cufflinks on Etsy €24 | 2. Babyliss for men €81 | 3. Paul Smith ribbed socks €25 each | 4. Ralph Lauren pink Boxers €35 from Brown Thomas| 5. River Island shirt | 6. A vintage Nintendo iPhone case from Cafila Shop on Etsy €12 | 7. Allure Homme Sport Extreme €53 | 8. New Look bra & brief set a present you and him | 9. Nespresso Pixie Electric Machine €149 at Brown Thomas |
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Valentine's Day Gifts for Her
By Amy Croffey
It's that time of the year again when Saint Valentine comes out of hiding and influences men all over the world to romance those they love or like - a lot. It’s a day that is traditionally associated with flowers, confectionery and sending sweet/ romantic/ rude/ funny greeting cards. This should not be a day that sends a shiver down your spine for all the wrong reasons because we have a list of gifts that she will love and that she will love you for even more! You will thank us later!
1. Myla bra €95 and briefs €59 from Brown Thomas - this gift is perfect for you and her! | 2. Marc Jacobs IPad Case €85 - cute and practical | 3. Chanel Nail Varnish from €21.90 | 4. A bouquet of flowers from Crazy Daisy Florists - see more florists in your area | 5. Miss Dior Cherie from €50 | 6. YSL Lipstick from €31 | 7. Butlers Chocolates | 8. Spa Day - see more hotels around Ireland | 9. Rangoli Neckpiece |
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10 Valentine's Day Looks for your Perfect Date Night
Like it or loath it, the day of love is just around the corner and here in WeddingsOnline we can’t help but feel a little romantic! We’ve decided to dedicate a few days to the feast of St. Valentine by choosing our favourite gifts for him and for her, the best date night ideas and the most gorgeous Valentine’s wedding day d�cor!
First up we’re picking 10 of our favourite date night outfits, so whether you celebrate with a dreamy night in a lavish restaurant, or a romantic night in with a movie and a take-away, we have a dress to suit the mood. By Karen Birney
Dinner & Cocktails
Cinema/Comedy Club
Cosy Night In
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Irish Designer Week: Project 51 Wedding Showcase
Project 51 is a modern style haven in Dublin City Centre, stocking the best in high-end Irish design.The store features a realm of Irish designers including those specialising in the fields of jewellery, millinery and accessories.
All this month they will be showcasing their wedding collections from Project 51 designers such as Caoimhe Keane, Jennifer Rothwell and Martha Lynn.
The showcase is made up of designers from the Project 51 collaborative as well as unique wedding suppliers ranging from flowers to cakes and stationery to event planning.
WeddingsOnline suppliers featured include florists Tiger Lily Flowers, event planners Plan My Party and, for the men, Aston Formal.
Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 7pm.
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Irish Designer Week: Martha Lynn Millinery
By Amy Croffey
Born in Co Roscommon, Martha Lynn is a young, passionate milliner based in Dublin. Her creations are a combination of traditional elements with a modern twist that she creates in her studio on 51 South William Street in Project 51.
Martha takes inspiration from everything and anything. “Each piece has been inspired by something different. It could be anything from materials to people,” she says.
Her designs are composed of simple clean lines. “I like to introduce a little element of excitement but I like to keep the design classic,” she adds.
Her most important advice for brides who are trying to find the perfect headpiece is to be comfortable and confident in what they are wearing and to consider the style of dress as well as the wedding theme.
On the issue of buying Irish, Martha believes that we all need to support each other. “In the current climate I think it’s really important to support and encourage Irish designers. With the right support we can continue to develop our designs and grow our business giving our customers a better quality and selection of products,” she says. “There is so much Irish talent. We really need to build on what we have.”
Martha tries to buy Irish materials as much as possible when creating her headpieces. At the moment, she is just selling her designs in Ireland but she also has customers in the UK, Australia and America.
For more information on Martha Lynn Millinery call 00 353 85 777 1641.
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Irish Designer Week: Marie McElheron Design
Marie McElheron has worked in the fashion industry in both Dublin and London for over 10 years. She now specialises in bridal design and is based in County Wicklow.
Marie describes the inspiration behind her latest wedding dress collection as slightly bohemian. “The cut remains simple but I’m a little more playful and creative with the design,” she says. “Rich embellishments of flowers and a mix of fabrics are part of each creation.”
Elegance
Marie’s signature style is a classic cut influence by Madeleine Vionnet who introduced it in the 1920s. “I believe less is more without sacrificing femininity or elegance,” she says. “Quality fabric is also very important. I only use silk in my collections.”
The celebrity Marie would most like to design for is Kate Moss because she believes her style is classic boho and she always looks effortless and comfortable in her playful and colourful style.
Marie’s advice for those who are starting to search for their dream wedding dress is to always keep an open mind and to start collecting ideas of what you like.
“Try on different styles to begin with and then narrow down your choices, most of all enjoy the experience,” says Marie.
When it comes to buying Irish, Marie thinks that most girls would consider it but they believe that having a dress custom-made by an Irish designer is very expensive which is not always the case.
“Buying Irish can only be a good choice. A lot of my clients are delighted to have chosen to buy from an Irish designer,” says Marie. “I work with brides-to-be up to a year before their wedding day so I get to know them very well and it’s a very special time and experience.”
Marie McElheron’s wedding dresses start at €800.
For more information contact Marie McElheron Bridal Design, Abbey House, Abbey Lane, Arklow, Co Wicklow or call 00 353 402 32818.
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Irish Designer Week: Edel Tuite
Edel Tuite is a well-known name in Ireland, renowned for her luxurious bridal gowns and bespoke service to brides. She aims to take the drama out of the wedding dress hunt by offering a highly personalised one-to-one service and start to finish wedding dress design and dress making service.
Grafton Acadamy graduate, Edel sharpened and expanded her skills by working with celebrated bridal designer Bridgette Moore. Her passion for design and flair for couture catapulted her into the bridal industry and she launched her own collection in 2001.
In 2008 Edel won Best Traditional Wedding Gown at the Irish Bridal Designer of the Year.
“Edel’s popularity is due to her reputation for creating unique, expertly crafted gowns that truly capture the beauty and spirit of a bride," says a Clients praise her honesty, professionalism and fun, friendly nature.”Edel prides on her personal service. She is fully aware of the needs of even the most discerning bride. Her customising service offers the opportunity to mix and match elements of any dresses her customers wish to emulate, from necklines, to fabrics, to lengths and details.
Edel’s specialises in natural silks which are especially good for girls getting married abroad in hot climates. Her new collection includes luxurious French laces, silk crepes, samouse Italian silk, chiffons and silk taffeta with her exclusive signature hand embellishments of hand beading and embroidery techniques.
Edel Tuite Bridal Design, Upper Mell, Drogheda, Co. Louth
To make an appointment with Edel call +353 41 987 2951 | 086 824 9575 or email [email protected]
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Irish Designer Week: Mia Elmes
Mia Elmes is a bridal designer with an admiration for understated elegance. As part of Irish Designer Week she speaks to Karen Birney about the importance of accentuating a woman's curves, of loving the suppliers you choose, and of supporting the Irish designer industry.
Graduate of Ireland’s centre for fashion design, The Grafton Academy, and the prestigious London College of Art, Mia Elmes first arrived on the designer stage with her contemporary ready-to-wear collection for Topshop Designers in 2005.
She built on the success of her flagship store commissions by establishing herself as an evening and bridal designer and soon garnered a name for her romantic, tailor-made designs and bespoke service.
Jane Eyre
Her bridal collection consists of sumptuous silk chiffons, antique embellished lace and soft lines. Her inspiration, she says, came from the eldest of the Bronte sisters.
“My signature style would probably be flowing chiffons and silk satins with simple, elegant tailoring," says Mia. "The romantic time of Jane Eyre was a great influence on my collection, when women wore fine silks to create beautiful, delicate silhouettes.”
The silhouette or ‘fall’ of a garment is of particular interest to Mia as she endeavours to construct complimentary garments to suit every shape and style. It is a task perfectly accomplished in her most favoured gown of her collection.
“My favourite gown is a silk and chiffon gown,” says Mia. (above left) “For me it reflects the importance of flowing shapes to accentuate the waist and glide over the hips to create an elegant silhouette.”
“The dress is perfect for a destination or summer bride when accessorised with simple flowers and a diamond headpiece. For a winter bride it would look stunning with a fur shawl and red roses.”
Bartering
Mia says she has noticed a ‘considerable rise’ in brides consulting Irish bridal designers in recent years, which is a welcome trend for home-based talents.
“This rise in interest is because the bride prefers to have the control of seeing her gown being made along the way and can change any design features throughout the process,” she says.
Another reason she believes brides are opting to go directly to designers is because they can often be bartered with.
“Irish designers are always willing to add in another feature or item so that the client will get better value for money,” she says. “I think it is important to support the Irish industry as there is a huge amount of incredible talent right on our doorstep!”
When it comes to finding the perfect dress for the big day, Mia believes that having a gown that suits your chosen venue and type of wedding is important. “Try to imagine the overall theme of your wedding,” she advises. “Bring together elements of different gowns by gathering images from magazines and sites.”
“It is important that you like the people you will be working with to have your gown made,” she adds, “so research your options and take the time to visit different shops and designers.”
Upstyling
With a past experience in fashion houses such as Ted Baker, Mia obviously has her ear to the ground when it comes to new trends in the fashion industry. The recent rise in the popularity of swap shopping and upstyling has meant Mia’s customising service is proving a very popular aspect of her work.
This budget-friendly service is perfect for guests who have more than one wedding to attend in a year and don’t want to purchase more than one dress.
Mia Elmes Bridal Couture, 11 Lakelands road, Upper Kilmacud road, Stillorgan, Dublin
To make an appointment with Mia, email [email protected] or phone 0861671523
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Irish Designer Week: Sarah Foy Designs
Sarah Foy is a home-grown talent. At Sarah Foy Designs she crafts fresh and exclusive bridal designs dreamed up and created in her personal studio in Clontarf, Dublin. As part of Irish Designer Week, WeddingsOnline editor Karen Birney speaks to Sarah about her influences and methods and why she thinks the future of the Irish design industry is in the hands of the designers themselves.
Sarah Foy's work has long been influenced by her years of travel, her immersion in the wider fashion industry and her experience elegantly dressing women in all their many forms. Her hand-made, one-of-a-kind, often eco-friendly gowns are born of a desire to create something timeless and familiar, yet fresh and distinctive.
“Simple, soft, feminine silhouettes really inspire my work,” she says. “I love designing pieces that at their core are elegant, but ultimately unique in some detail,”
This year, Sarah is looking to the laid-back glamour and elegant simplicity of the roaring 20s for inspiration.
“I have been influenced a lot this year by 1920s glamour,” she says, noting a penchant for liquid satins and detailed embellished pieces. “The effortless sophistication of that era really works well in bridal and evening wear.”
Sarah’s unique designs are a process, one that she strives to make exciting and pleasant for both her client and for herself.
At her little-piece-of-bridal-paradise in Clontarf, Sarah holds private one-to-one consultations where she invites brides to share their individual style, ideas, hopes and expectations.
A Partnership
The entire process is a partnership, a joint venture between bride and designer, where the bride's ideas are encouraged, her mind opened, and in the end, her dreams made real.
From the initial sketches, design selections and mock ups, to adjustments, fabric selections and final fittings, Sarah thoroughly examines the fit of the garment, so you feel flawless and confident when it comes to your moment to shine.
“We dress brides to suit their shape, style and personality,” says Sarah. “This makes one of the most important aspects of any bride's wedding day also one of the most enjoyable. “
When the cut is finalised, those extra delicate details are added in the form of individually covered buttons, hand beading and intricate lace embellishments. “We create a unique piece for each client,” she says, “spending time on the small details and always trying to consider the overall look for the day rather than just the dress we create,” says Sarah.
Sarah’s personal wedding service doesn’t stop there, she also designs for mother of the bride, bridesmaids and flower girls. What better person to entrust your mother and best friend to than another woman who knows you style intimately and will be with you every step of the way? "These outfits and dresses are all created to blend with the overall look of your wedding,” she says.
Buying Irish
“The bride’s focus should firstly be finding the dress for her,” Sarah replies when asked if a bride should consider buying Irish designs. “If that dress is Irish made then it is an added bonus."
Sarah believes the future of the Irish design industry however is in the hands of the industry members themselves. “I think as Irish designers, we need to ensure that customer service and high quality standards co-exist with the most innovative Irish designs,” she says.
To make an appointment with Sarah, phone 086 1780220 or email [email protected]
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