Many and I do mean many years ago, I was a bridesmaid in one of my girlfriends weddings whom I absolutely adore and that is the only reason I sacrificed fashion to wear what I thought was one the ugliest dresses of all time. She, whom shall remain nameless and the dress color shall also remain nameless (She would know exactly who I’m talking about) was a long drape look-a-like with very puffy sleeves and lace where lace had no business being. Well, thank god bridesmaids dresses have come a long way and I know my darling bridesmaids couldn’t be happier.
There is absolutely any excuse to why a bride should subject their bridesmaids to wearing a dress they’ll never wear again. The new dresses are so versatile and so easy to wear to another event. Below are a few of the dresses that I cam across that have transformed the world of bridesmaid dresses. These dresses are amazing and certainly are not your typical bridesmaid dresses.
Now you know the deal and I have to tell you my personal favorites or I’m afraid that you’ll get confused of who’s writing this blog. My absolute favorite pick has to be this simply gorgeous little number by Catherine Malandrino. This strapless fuchsia wool dress features embellished fanciful frills which ultimately forms in a flower and you can see, this dress is certainly a celebration of femininity and I couldn’t love it more.
We, at André Winfrye Events thrive on your feedback and your thoughts. I love it when I get an email from you telling me about your feelings on my posts and they do help me focus on what you like to read about. I would love your input on this post. Tell me, what are your dresses like? Were you a bridesmaid that wore a dress like mine? Are you a bridesmaid whom absolutely loved her dress and have worn it again and again? Send me your pictures and stories and whom knows, you just might be featured on our favorite stories of all times.
Hoping to inspire you,
Violaine Diogene
For as long as I can remember, every Sunday afternoon I’ll spend some quality time turning the pages of one of my favorite wedding magazines and this Sunday was no different. This little time that I refer to as “Bridal Magazine Time” usually gives me something to think about, chat about and definitely obsessed about and my new obsession (at least for this week) is Stephanie Browne of Australia.
Who is Stephanie Browne? Am I glad you asked…
Stephanie Browne is a designer of elegant couture jewelry with a combination of classic and uncomplicated pieces through to strikingly bold “must have” fashion accessories. Several of her collections are highlighted with head turning feather hair accessories, bejeweled belts and headbands, and stories inspired by the increasingly popular styles of the 1920’s showgirl era. Yes, I know; this must be an incredible collection and let me assure you my sweet darling brides, it is!
Stephanie’s awareness of her customers is legendary. Her unique styling allows the wearer to be reminded of classic elegance of a time gone by. Each design reflects originality and beauty, with each hand made piece ensured to become a treasured possession.
According Stephanie Browne, every piece of her work is an original designed, hand-made collection is made using only the finest of components, from Swarovski crystals and pearls, rhodium non-tarnishing bases, flowing emu and peacock feathers, through to silk flowers. And you know I love peacock feathers and Swarovski crystals.
I’m going to start this favorite category off with this stunning and simply to die for piece and you’re right… these pieces are not for the fainted heart. These pieces are for the bride whom adores boldness and dares to make a statement. My absolute number one pick had to be this piece referred to as St Tropez Headpiece and WOW is all I have to say about that.
Obsessed with anything and everything wedding,
Violaine Diogene
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By now I trust that you know just how much I love photography and the work they produce. I love a photographer who can make the simplest of things look amazing. I love a photographer who will photograph something as simple as the hill of a shoe and make it look like a stunning painting. I adore a photographer whom looks at the rare of the rarest moments to snap a photo which will remind one of the intimate details of their day. One of such photo is below where Jackson of Jaxon Photography saw a moment of pure art and captured a photo a Moet Chandon foil which was probably after someone popped the cork. How brilliant was that? I love that picture.
Jaxon’s photos are always captured in an artistic manner while every detail and I do mean every detail’s captured in an unobtrusively, respectfully and completely. I’ve had the outstanding pleasure of seeing this amazing photographer in action and Jaxon is standard for superior Service and professionalism.
Now, you know in everything I blog about, I always include a few of my favorites for you to see but I had to do it a little differently this time as I simply could not choose just a few favorites. In this gallery I had to show you my favorites from a very recent engagement session to weddings and certainly of the unexpected and very unusual shots that makes you think “hey, why didn’t my photographer get a shot like that?”
My absolute favorite picture has to be this amazing picture of this groom’s reaction when he sees his bride walking down the aisle! Seriously, what more can I say about this amazing picture? My second was hard to pick and so, I’m putting them side by side. I love how he catpured the essence of these two brides. And my third absolute favorite had to be this wonderful picture of one of the nicest moments in every wedding; the father and daughter dance.
As always, you know how much I simply adore your opinion and it’s no different this time. What do you think about these photos? What’s your photographer like? send me some pictures of your wedding and I would love to blog about them.
In love with Jaxon Photography,
Violaine Diogene
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Within the past two years or so, the name Maria Pinto has become a household name; well I guess to the house that pays great attention to fashion. If you don’t know who Maria Pinto is, keep reading. She’s the Chicago fashion designer behind many of (one of my favorite ladies on the planet) First Lady Michelle Obama’s amazing and stunning looks. Many of the little sheath dresses, pencil skirts and striking and colorful fabrics she wears have been credited to this amazing designers and for that, I must confess to your that I am totally in love with her gowns right now.
These gowns, cocktail dresses, fancy trousers and amazing silk tops can be worn to just about any occasion your lovely hears desire. Below are just a few pictures of what she has to offer. Yes, I know by now you can easily pick out which of these are my favorites but just in the event you don’t know, I just want to share with you.
Did you have any doubt this amazing and stunning, yet simple gown would be my very first pick? I love this dress. I love the color, and I love the simplicity of it yet it’s just a glamorous gown. I love the jeweled band which hugs the midsection and I love the heavy flow of the train draping from one shoulder. Can you say dramatic entrance?
My second top favorite has to be these amazing pant in Snow Corboba Cotton. And you know, I love the Milonga Top with Peony Charmeuse Roses. This stunning pair can be worn to any event and you’ll still make an entrance to be remembered. As always, let me know your thoughts on this collection.
Madly in love with fashion,
Violaine Diogene
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With all the little pleasures in the world, nothing makes happier than an amazing clutch to compliment my assembles of the evening. It is my honest opinion that a girl can never have too many clutches and I do mean you can never, in this lifetime or the next have to many clutches. Whether I’m attending a cocktail party or a black-tie affair I’m certain a clutch will add true elegance to the look and to make me feel truly amazing, Davie And Chiyo are customizing these spectacular delectable’s. No, this is not a typo and you didn’t misread the post; Davie and Chiyo are truly customizing your clutch with whatever your sweet adorable heart desires. Have I customize one yet? Off course silly, anytime I’ve given a chance to put my name on something I love, you can be certain I will take the opportunity.
These aren’t just any clutch; these little delectables are remarkable, unique and eye-catching in every way and are made of high quality materials and attention to detail ensures the excellence of each clutch. Now, you know that it’s simply my joy to share with you what’s posted on line as well my personal favorites. As you can imagine, I had a hard time choosing just two of these clutches but the first two are the ones that I personally ordered and I just fell madly, passionately and head over hills in love it. And yes, I would like to know your thoughts on these amazing little delectables.
The first very pretty and hip fuchsia clutch was my first order with my name stitched inside! The clutch is made in one of my favorite fabric which is dupioni silk in one of my absolutely favorite colors of fuchsia. The lining is cotton with black and white animal patterns. And because I love bows, I have to have the over sized, eye catching bow on and that’s really what makes this clutch amazing!
The second clutch is the Cream Tiered Rose which is made from two kinds of silk; the structure of the body is made with ivory dupioni silk, with layers and layers of silk charmeuse in cream color sewn around the entire clutch. The silk charmeuse comes into a beautifully sculptured rose in the front of the bag, slightly off-centered. The silk edges are all left raw, giving the layers a very soft look. The clutch is lined with dupioni silk in champagne. Need I say more? Oh, my name is also engraved inside this amazing little pile of dupioni and charmeuse silk. Now, you know I can go on and on about these but why not go visit them online and see which of these little delectables will have your name engraved?
Madly in love with clutches,
Violaine Diogene
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As the year 2009 comes to an end, designers all over the world are showcasing their 2010 collection with hopes of catching a bride’s eye. This designer Far Pepe Botella certainly caught our eyes at André Winfrye Events. From the typical stereotypes of the Mediterranean, Pepe Botella is inspired by his own origins, thinking of the present and the future. Beyond the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans, the Mediterranean is a modern, active, entrepreneur culture. It is the Mediterranean of the Ciudad de las Artes in Valencia and the Parc del Fòrum in Barcelona. The same sea, the same light, the same colours that inspire post modern architecture, looking at the blue of the Mediterranean Sea, bathed with its light.
The new collection from the Alicante firm is based on highly developed patterns, treated from an architectural point of view. Structured shapes, made with material, needle and thread, playing with the elegant, classical materials of brides, in which silk fabrics are the protagonist, with mikados, dupioni and organdies. You will also find light, supple gauzes and coupé organdies.
It is my sincere hope that you will take a moment to visit this amazing designer and view this collection. Certainly if we can answer any questions for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Kindest wishes,
André Winfrye
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For just about every wedding I’ve had the pleasure of planning, a little man always walks in with a cute little pillow which symbolizes he’s carrying two precious metals. Two precious metals which will be worn by two people who are committing their selves to each other. Two precious metals which will remind two people of a scared vow which was made in the present of friends and family. And this little pillow full of traditions is referred to as the Ring Bearer’s Pillow. Yes, I know you’re well aware of that little fact, but I still have to share it.
Per one of my bride’s request, I’ve been on a hunt for a couture ring bearer’s pillow and while on my journey, I found these stunning little pillows. Now, who would want to throw these away? I love these couture pillows and I love the silk fabrics which they are made out of. Now, you know I’m going to tell you which two are my personal favorites and yes, you guessed it as I had a hard time picking just two out of the 11, simply because I adore all. But I do love anything with feathers and amazing, elegant fabric flowers and because of that, my very first choice is the Paige from Belles & Crystals! This stunning ring bearer pillow is made out of luxurious silk dupioni. A hand cut silk organza flower with a rhinestone center and ostrich feather accent and a satin ribbon accented with Swarovski rhinestones to easily ties secures your several karats; how amazing is that? If you’re planning on wearing a hair pin, why not compliment the look wearing this matching bloom made of 100% silk organza petals and accented with a genuine Swarovski crystal center and wisps of ostrich and hand stripped coque feathers! All I can say is Wow!
My second favorite had to be the Phoebe ivory pillow which is made of luxurious silk dupioni and a stunning artisinal flower. Your rings will be held by a matching double faced satin ribbon perched atop a cluster of shimmering Swarovski pearls! If you love all things detailed like me, you’ll love the fact that you can get matching baskets for your adorable flower girls whom will throw petals at your thrown and what more can a girl ask for?
My Third choice is designed by Y&E Bridal and is absolutely beautiful. The simple, yet vintage pillow is made of ivory soft satin, with embroidered flowers, tiny little pearls with a wide taupe ribbon and covered with a beautiful lace overlay. And finally I had to include this one in my personal favorite simply because of the choice of color. When was the last time you saw a lime green ring pillow? I love this color and this lime green satin ring pillow is decorated with a wide white ribbon and two beautiful white silk roses. Thin green ribbon is attached to hold the rings and a green ribbon is also attached to the back to hold the pillow.
Now, you know I love nothing more than for you to leave me your thoughts. Tell me about the details in your wedding. Do you have pictures of your pillow? What will you do with your pillow after your karats are on your finger?
Passionate about my brides,
Violaine Diogene
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A perfect day in the office for us at André Winfrye Events is when we make a bride’s day by showing her something completely new and she has her “WOW” moment. Today, such a moment came when I introduced one of my brides to a new concept of cake stands! Yes, I said cake stands!
My bride Melisa is planning her dream wedding which will reflect truly her personality and style. Melisa is sexy, fun, stunning, elegant with a hint of funky and I love it. Everything so far as far as her décor goes is out of the norm and I thought her cake stand should be the same. And that’s when I logged onto Raise the Cake to show her what I had in mind for her amazing cake. Melisa was floored by these beautiful and amazing work. These are not your average cake stands!
With these amazing work of arts, you will see how your wedding cake will take center stage with these custom cake platforms. Brightly colored and textured cake stands can match your wedding theme and feature the attributes of your confection, making an elaborate tiered cake even more so or enhancing a small, simple design with added height and interest. Raise the Cake allows you to design your stand by selecting a fabric, color and embellishing it with an assortment of broaches, ribbons, pins and buckles.
As you know, it’s my great pleasure to show you my personal favorites in anything I recommend! I had a hard time choosing between the platforms but the first platform had me at the first sight of burnt orange, soft satin fabric and beautiful broach. What won’t this go with? You can tie this look into your wedding gown, your chair covers and anything else your amazing heart feels like. My second favorite features the stunning silk dark green fabric with hand-cut flowers and tiny little green crystals. Can you see how stunning your cake will look being displayed on one of these pieces of art?
As always, I what do you think of these cake stands? How are you displaying your cake? You know I would love to hear from you.
In love with anything wedding,
Violaine Diogene
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By now, I trust that you know how much I love to make a statement. I love accessories that screams elegant, I love a dress that is classic and certainly I love flowers that are bold and colorful. Some of the most memorable events I’ve attended included the nicest centerpieces that will remain with me for the rest of my life. When going through my photo album of the weddings that I’ve been fortunate enough to plan, I went on the knot to see what else I can show you to bring your creative side out.
Below are some of the nicest arrangements I’ve ever seen and it is my hope that these arrangements will inspire you to think out of the box when it comes to picking your centerpieces.
Did you just ask if I’m going to tell you which ones are my favorites? Don’t be silly, off course I am! What kind of planner would I be if I didn’t tell you which one truly had me at first sight? The first two are most definitely my personal favorites. Wow for the first centerpiece for being one of the most creative centerpiece ideas I have seen in a long time! Heffernan Morgan Designs designed this masterpiece by using classic lampshades and glass vases filled with water and small strands of white orchids. In each lamp was a pink light bulb which provided the soft glow. To finish them off, each centerpiece was lit from the bottom up using a mirrored light box. A fairly involved set-up, but very scene-setting!
My second favorite was achieved by using three cylinder vases were filled with sea glass and LED light cubes which provided that stunning but soft glow. Your eyes can’t help but stare at blush cymbidium orchids, cream peonies, white hydrangeas, lisianthus, and roses.
Well, what do you think of these centerpieces? How will you use these to inspire your décor? Did you choose your centerpieces already? I would love nothing more than for you to share your pictures and your thoughts with me.
Hoping to inspire you,
Violaine
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