Tara Keely Trunk Show

Upcoming Event: Tara Keely Trunk Show, October 5th - 6th, at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only.

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com 

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

JIM HJELM- OCT 26-27

JIM HJELM BLUSH AND HAYLEY PAIGE- NOV 9-10

AMSALE BRIDESMAIDS- NOV 15-17

Kelly Faetanini Trunk Show at Garnish

Upcoming event: Kelly Faetanini bridal trunk show, September 28th -29th at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only.  Take a look at some of the Fall 2012 collection: 

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com 

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: 

TARA KEELY - OCT 5-6

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

JIM HJELM- OCT 26-27

JIM HJELM BLUSH AND HAYLEY PAIGE- NOV 9-10

AMSALE BRIDESMAIDS- NOV 15-17

TARA KEELY- NOV 23-24

Hayley Paige Trunk Show at Garnish

The Hayley Paige bridal trunk show is September 20th -21st at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only, and only a few appointments left!  

Hayley Paige has chic figure-hugging silhouettes with femininity and just a hint of edge.  Modern bride perfection.  

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: 

KELLY FAETININI - SEPT 28-29

TARA KEELY - OCT 5-6

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

Baltimore Bridal Show

This weekend is one of (if not the) largest Baltimore wedding shows.  The Baltimore Bridal Show kicks off this Saturday evening.  Need advice on how to prepare?  Check out this post on surviving wedding show season.

When: This weekend, February 4th & 5th. 

Where: Baltimore Convention Center, 1 West Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21201 

Why: Fashion shows, vendors, experts, gifts and prizes.

How: You can buy tickets here for $10.  

Hayley Paige Trunk Show at Garnish

The Hayley Paige bridal trunk show is this Friday & Saturday Feb 3-4th at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only, and only a few appointments left!  And wow, get 10% off all orders placed during the showing!

Hayley Paige has chic figure-hugging silhouettes with femininity and just a hint of edge.  Modern bride perfection.  

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com

Tasting Tuesdays with Truffles

I have been a long time fan of the Belvedere (its my favorite building in Baltimore) and more recently have become a fan of Truffles Catering.  I am especially a fan of those awesome Truffles ladies who throw fabulous soirees and plan perfect weddings!  Want to know what I'm talking about?  Attend one of their Tasting Tuesdays!

The first and third Tuesday of each month Truffles will feature tapas-style tastings of their delicious hors d'oeuvres, salads, entrees, and desserts for clients interested in their catering services for an event.  You can purchase your tickets here.  I know I will be heading over for some of their mouthwatering cuisine ASAP!

Their next tasting will be Tuesday, January 17th.

Bridal Show Season- How to prepare?

Baltimore Bride Magazine's Aisle Style

Now that you have decided which bridal shows to attend this season, make sure you are prepared to get the most out of your time (and money).  Here are some tips to help make bridal shows a piece of cake:

1. Have an empty tote.  Be sure to have a bag to carry all of the informational brochures, business cards, information packets, etc you will want to take home.  If you are attending a big show, you will be amazed by the amount of literature you'll be carrying around.

2.  Have a notebook and pen.  Of course, a lot of information will be provided by the vendor in promotional materials.  But you may want to make notes about particular vendors you liked, specific services they provide, price quotes, or questions you had answered.  If you're an overachiever, bring a fine point Sharpie- that way you can write on any surface, including glossy promotional literature.

3. Have calling cards.  Either your business cards, personal calling cards, or self-printed labels with your name, mailing address, email address, and phone number.  Most vendors will already have this information when you register to attend, but if there is a particular vendor you are interested in, be sure they receive one.  Vendors may offer discounts or giveaways to brides they meet at particular events.

4. Have a check book.  For the most part, you'll just be learning about vendors.  But, you never know what you may find- the perfect photographer with limited availability.  There are only 52 weekends in a year and vendors can fill up fast.  Also, some vendors have "show only specials."  In order to receive a discounted rate, you must make a deposit during the show.  Don't be afraid to ask vendors if they have any show promotions.

5. Have a camera.  Be ready to take photos of fashion shows, wedding vignettes, cakes, etc.  Inspiration abound, you'll want to be able to review later.  Also, take photos of the booths of any vendors you were particularly interested in.  It will be an easy visual reminder of conversations or thoughts you may have had.  At the end of the day it may be difficult to keep things clear after collecting so many business cards, a booth photo should provide you with basic information, such as the vendor's name.

6. Have comfortable shoes.   Ladies, I'm not kidding.  You're going to be standing and walking for hours, carrying a bunch of brochures, catalogs, and magazines - don't miss out by distracting foot pain or having to leave early.  Most door prizes or raffles are announced later in the show and you must be present to win.

7. Have an entourage.  Bring people who have opinions you trust.  Consider people who have a sense of style or taste you admire, people who are good with negotiations or making financial decisions, and people who are good with keeping your needs in mind.  I mention that last one as we all have friends and family who are good at deciding what they'd like, make sure your posse includes someone who not only knows you well but can advocate on your behalf.

8. Have a good time.  Wedding shows are full of great food, beautiful decor, and fun music.  Take a moment to enjoy the time with your friends and family.  Some shows will have a dance floor, don't hesitate to bust a move!  And remember if you're feeling overwhelmed, just step out and take a moment to yourself.

Bridal Show Season- Which to attend?

The beginning of the new year- days are shorter, defrosting your windshield is a daily occurrence, the gym is suddenly crowded, and everyone is hosting a bridal show.  That's right, its bridal show season!  Of course, you can't hit them all, so how do you decide?  Well first, here is a run down of some of the upcoming bridal shows in the Baltimore area:

Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Bridal Show. Jan 7th. Stevensville, MD.
Great Bridal Expo. Jan 7th. Baltimore, MD.

Timonium Bridal Expo.  Jan 7th & 8th.  Timonium, MD.

Delmarva Bridal Showcase.  Jan 8th.  Salisbury, MD.
Baltimore Museum of Industry's Annual Bridal Show. Jan 10th. Baltimore, MD.
Here Comes The Bride... and Groom Wedding Expo. Jan 15th. Linthicum Heights, MD.

Eastern Shore Bridal Extravaganza.  Jan 15th.  Easton, MD.
Turf Valley's Bridal Extravaganza.  Jan 20th.  Ellicott City, MD.  

Baltimore Bride Magazine's Aisle Style.  Jan 29th.  Pikesville, MD.

Embassy Suites Hunt Valley Bridal Show.  Jan 29th.  Hunt Valley, MD.

Baltimore Bridal Show. February 4th & 5th. Baltimore, MD.
Winter Bridal Showcase.  Feb 19th.  Towson, MD.

So now that you realize its not physically possible to attend all the upcoming events in the Baltimore area (nor would you want to feel like a "bridezilla" for doing so), its time to make some decisions.  

Things to consider:

Location Location Location

If your venue is hosting a bridal show, you'll want to attend.  You will be able to spend more time in the space and experience a large event at your venue.  Also, most venues have relationships with specific vendors, especially caterers, so you will further get to know your vendors.  

You should attend a show in the area of your wedding.  For example, planning a wedding on the Eastern Shore?  You'll want to attend a bridal show across the bay.  Although many vendors provide services throughout the area, attending a show local to your venue will provide you an opportunity to meet local vendors whom you may not otherwise have the chance.

Do Your Homework

Remember, this is not only a way for you to discover new vendors, but also a way to do some one stop shopping.  Most event websites will list the vendors who will be exhibiting.  Think of the vendors you'd like to talk to and see which event will have the more of your perspective vendors.

Think about the sections of your planning left to do.  Have you planned the bridal party's attire? - Will this event have a fashion show?  Still considering a theme or color scheme? - Will this event have vignettes to inspire you?  And don't be afraid to contact the event host to get further details.

Size of Event (and You)

Maybe its just my background in psychology, but personality is something to consider (and not just yours, think of the family members and friends who may be tagging along).  Are you going to be excited or overwhelmed by a huge event?  Are you happy to push through crowds to find what you want?  Do you do better in intimate settings?  Would you rather have more individualized attention and compromise on the number of vendors?  It may seem inconsequential, but it can make a difference.  Sensory overload can be a real problem!

Use Your Friends

Have any newlywed friends?  Ask which shows they attended and what their experiences were.  Social media is another great way to get some advice.  Ask Facebook friends for some feedback and suggestions.  

Jenny Yoo Promotion at Garnish Boutique

Sorry I haven't been posting much lately.  I have been so busy- wrapping up fall wedding orders and getting ready for the holiday season.  I'm working on bringing you some great reads in the coming weeks.  Anyway, I wanted to let you know that this is the last week to get in on the fab Jenny Yoo promotion at Garnish!  Basically, gorgeous designer bridesmaids dresses, made to order, are discounted!  Who doesn't love a sweet deal?  Call Mia at Garnish for an appointment: 410.321.1406.

Ladies, mark your calendars!  Hitched is hosting another Sample Sale Soiree! 

So why head down to Washington, D.C.?  Can we say sweet deals?  Up to 60% off couture bridal gowns!  Including designers Anna Maier/Ulla-Maija, Amsale, Judd Waddell, Christos, and more.  Take a moment, catch your breath! 

When: Thursday, October 13th, 5pm - 8pm.  First come, first serve!

Where: Hitched Bridal Couture, 1523 Wisconson Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20007

How: Call 202-333-6162 to RSVP (recommended)

Tara Keely Trunk Show

 What:  Tara Keely Fall 2011 Bridal Collection trunk show!

When: September 30th - October 8th, by appointment.

Where: Garnish Boutique, 1515 Labelle Ave., Suite 3, Baltimore, MD 21204

Why: The collection is gorgeous!  And any order placed during the show will be 15% off! 

How: Call 410.321.1406 or email to set up an appointment.

Modern Trousseau Bridal Gown Trunk Show

Modern Trousseau designer Callie Tein is headed to D.C. this weekend! 

She will be showing her collection at Hitched Salon, this Friday, September 9th and Saturday, September 10th.  Not only can you discuss gown customizations with her, but she is offering 10% off to any gowns purchased during the show! 

The show is by appointment only,
call Hitched at 202-333-6162 or
email appointments@hitchedsalon.com.

Modern Trousseau designs use luxurious French and Italian laces, imported silks and delicate beadwork.   Don't miss this!

Kirstie Kelly at Costco

I recently posted about Kirstie Kelly's collection for Costco.  Just a reminder...

When:  August 18th - 21st

Where: Columbia Costco

6675 Marie Curie Drive, Elkridge, MD 21075

Why:  Designer gowns at half the price! 

How: Walk ins are welcome, but suggested you make an appointment.  Call: (410) 423-4050.

Facebook Contest

Just a reminder...

Enter to win...  Either $50 off your custom bridal jewelry order or a $100 gift certificate to Alexandra Webb Jewelry.  You can spend it in the boutique or on my Etsy site. 

How to enter?  Become a "fan" on Facebook by clicking "like" on the blog's Facebook page.  Already a fan?  No worries, you have already been entered.

A winner will be selected randomly from the blog's Facebook page July 31st.

The fine print: $50 off your custom bridal order is only valid on orders over $300.  $100 gift certificate may be used on any non-custom non-sale purchase.  Valid on any AWJ purchase, including jewelry, accessories, and handbags.  You must redeem either offer by August 31, 2011. 

Anna Elyse Promotion

Anna Elyse is available at Garnish Boutique.  Call (410) 321-1406 to schedule an appointment.

Betsy Robinson Designer Gown Sale

Ladies, you don't want to miss this one...

It's About Time for a Give-Away!

Loyal readers...It's about time that I say thank you.  To my surprise, just over a year of having started this blog,  I have well over 500 readers each month, and had more than 5,000 unique visitors this past year!  I don't know what to say, I'm so glad my little blog is so helpful (and hopefully entertaining)!  So, in the spirit of "giving back," I thought it was time for a give-away!  Here's the skinny:

Enter to win...  Either $50 off your custom bridal jewelry order or a $100 gift certificate to Alexandra Webb Jewelry.  You can spend it in the boutique or on my Etsy site. 

How to enter?  Become a "fan" on Facebook by clicking "like" on the blog's Facebook page.  Already a fan?  No worries, you have already been entered.

A winner will be selected randomly from the blog's Facebook page July 31st.

The fine print: $50 off your custom bridal order is only valid on orders over $300.  $100 gift certificate may be used on any non-custom non-sale purchase.  Valid on any AWJ purchase, including jewelry, accessories, and handbags.  You must redeem either offer by August 31, 2011. 

Hitched Sample Sale Soiree

Ladies, get ready!  It's on!  Hitched Bridal Couture of Washington, D.C. is opening it doors one evening only for a sample sale!  Here's the deal:

Couture wedding gowns up to 70% off!  Designers include: Ulla-Maija, Amsale, Judd Waddell, Oscar de la Renta, and more. 

No appointment necessary, but its preferred that you RSVP.   There will likely be a line to get in, so recommended that you arrive early.  Doors open at 5pm and due to space limitations, not everyone will be allowed in at once.  But fret not!  

You can take a look at the selection of gowns on sale ahead of time!  Take a look at the sample gowns (and sizes) available on the website. Sizes available vary, the majority are size 10 (equivalent to a size 6 - 8 ready to wear), but there are some smaller and larger gowns available as well!  

Details: Thursday, July 14th, 5 - 8pm.  Hitched Salon, 1523 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007.  202-333-6162.

Warehouse Wedding Gowns?

These days everyone is getting into the bridal "game."  J. Crew, Anne Taylor, Anthropologie, and now... Costco.  That's right, Costco.  But, before you shake your head and close your laptop, take a look!

Costco has partnered with designer Kirstie Kelly to create a line of affordable gowns.  The prices range from $699 to $1,399 (comparable to Vera Wang's White collection, available exclusively at David's Bridal).  Kelly's gowns are usually priced $2,000 - $7,000.  They are available in sizes 2 - 24, a much better size range than Wang's White (sizes 0 - 14). 

The gowns aren't at any given Costo, they are currently traveling around the country.  But, they will be at the Costco in Columbia this August 18th - 21st.  Mark your calendars (and be sure to make an appointment)!  Columbia Costco - 6675 Marie Curie Drive - (410) 423-4050.

Jenny Yoo Promotion at Garnish Boutique

Wow, the summer is just flying by!  Be sure not to miss out on a great promotion at Garnish boutique.  Order now until JUNE 30th and receive an additional 10% off when ordering any short dress styles from Jenny Yoo.  Its not too late to make an appointment for this week or next!  So, give Garnish a call to make an appointment: 410.321.1406.  Just to entice you, here are some fabulous styles for Jenny Yoo's collection: