Top 5 reasons to book an engagement photo shoot

Why not capture the euphoria of your engagement with professional photographs? If you haven’t already considered it, here are some reasons why you should:

1.    Part of the package – take advantage of the opportunity that many photographers will offer you a complimentary or discounted engagement shoot if you book them for your wedding.

2.    Build a rapport with your photographer – This will be your first opportunity to work with your photographer. It gives both parties a chance to bond and get to know each other’s personalities and preferences. Feeling comfortable around your photographer is key to an effortless, laid back shoot. You can also use the shoot as a chance to get accustomed to being in front of the camera and for getting used to certain posed angles and positions.

3.    A way to address your concerns – Many people are “camera shy” and this is why a shoot can help allay some of their camera fears. Brides may be worried about not photographing well, photos taken from certain angles which don’t flatter them or simply concerned about how to pose, in order to camouflage certain physical flaws.

All of these issues can easily be worked out during an engagement shoot. Many couples feel more confident after the photo shoot, having been privy to the photographer’s directions, tips and cues.

4.    An opportunity to improvise and experiment – Most of the times, an engagement shoot is fairly informal (unless you want to go for formal, posed shots). Since the shoot will be more casual, you have free reign to experiment with different types of photos, locations, poses and lighting. In a way, the shoot can be considered as a dress rehearsal for the photo shoot on your wedding day.

5.    Mementos – Your engagement photos can be used on your “save the date” cards, invitations or even thank you cards. You can also incorporate them into the reception décor, wedding favours (think coasters!) or a projected slideshow during your cocktail hour.

Some other styling tips for your engagement shoot are:

Selecting your wardrobe – Always be aware of the background for your shoot. You wouldn’t want to blend in! One example is avoiding wearing green if your shoot will take place in a garden or park. Another colour may pop better, such as white, ivory or even brighter colours such as purple, red or orange.

It is also best to wear clothing you’re most comfortable in for your shoot. If your style is more casual, try not to turn into someone unrecognizable in a cocktail dress and stilettos on your shoot! The best option is to stay true to your style and clothing preferences. Try to avoid clothing that will become see-through in the sunlight or clothing that will show your underwear or perspiration stains, if you’re doing an outdoor shoot.

Having props or a certain theme - Many couples choose to use parasols, balloons, cars, bicycles or beach balls, to inject more personality and interest during their shoot. Couples are now incorporating their pets and favourite memorabilia (books, collector items or heirlooms) even more, as well.

Choose a meaningful location – Engagement shoots are not usually done in studio; most are done off-site or on location. Your choice of location can be as simple as having it at home, if that’s where you’re most comfortable.

However, if you would like to be more adventurous, your shoot is an ideal time to select a location that reflects your interests. For example, if you are a sports fan, you can choose to shoot in a stadium or playing field or if you love to dine out, you can do your shoot al fresco, at your favourite restaurant or café. Many couples choose locations that are off-the-beaten path such as: on a rooftop, beachside, a movie theatre, on a bridge or near to monuments or places of architectural interest.

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A Groom’s Ring Guide

From classic to the dramatic! Tastes in engagement rings span a wide spectrum of choices. So it’s easy to see why a groom can become slightly overwhelmed.

Some couples prefer to go ring shopping together. This is particularly so if the bride is very specific on her likes and dislikes. However, if this is a solo job for the groom-to-be, it means having to do some research on her preferences for diamond cut, gemstone colour, diamond size, ring settings and type of metal (gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum etc.)

Here are some tips when choosing an engagement ring:

1.  Setting your budget – The majority of grooms spend about 10-15% of their annual income on the engagement ring. Of course, this varies, but it is important to have a price range in mind before you venture out ring shopping.

2.   Use her existing ring styles as a starting point – This can clue you in on her style; for example, some brides feel it may be better to be demure and understated with their jewellery choices, others feel quite the opposite! Observe whether her rings are more simple or more ornate or whether they are more antique or more modern.

3.  Know her ring size– The last thing you would want to happen is to try to propose with a ring that just won’t fit her finger! It is much better to err on the side of the ring being a bit larger, since then, it is easier to re-size. A good tip is to place one of her rings on your pinky finger and make a mental note of where it stops or if you can manage it, without her seeing, trace the inside of one of her rings on paper.

4.  Research what diamond cut she prefers – Modern brides have many choices in terms of diamond cuts. The most popular one is the traditional round cut (circular diamond). However, others are also gaining in popularity such as the “emerald” cut (rectangular), the “princess” cut (square-shaped), the “marquise” (which looks like a teardrop that is pointy on both ends) and the “pear” (teardrop). |

5.  Colour – Clear diamonds are the favourite of the majority of women. However, some more unconventional ladies may not mind a coloured gemstone at all. Popular colours now are pink and yellow diamonds and even sapphires, after the fashion of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton’s ring.

6.  Find out the store’s policy – Be sure to ask the jeweler about the policy on returns and refunds and also about repairs, adjustments and diamond upgrades.

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2012’s Trendiest Bridal Accessories

Bridal accessories will be bolder this year and will also reflect the new wave of brides who want to personalise their look or simply be unique; by incorporating traditional elegance with their own modern flair.

Here is the "glam list” for this year:

Victorian-inspired – Accessories are taking a cue from the Victorian era. This year, we are seeing motifs that were once popular on Victorian jewelry such as: flora, fauna and bows. The incorporation of ribbon, lace and tulle on jewelry pieces, is another Victorian influence.

Sashes– Sashes are multifunctional; providing a focal point to simple dresses and helping to create an hourglass shape. They canbe bought in various colours and most are embellished with feathers, jewels, crystals and beadwork. The popular colours this year are: black, blush pink, deep purple, mauve, lavender and champagne or ivory

 

 

Head Gear - The shorter, face framing “bird cage veil” is still popular, as well as fascinators. Ribbon headbands or metallic headbands that incorporate flowers, plumes and crystals are also trending. Other stunners are: bohemian styled-headpieces (similar to what Kim Kardashian wore on her head, for her wedding), jeweled barrettes, embellished hairpins and dramatic, crystal haircombs.

Bold Colour – Modern brides are now exploring coloured gemstones and crystals instead of the traditional clear crystals, diamonds and pearls. Some brides are even opting to match their jewellery with the colour of their bridesmaids’ dresses, for example sets in sapphire, turquoise, onyx, ruby and emerald. Other choose to match jewellery to their shoes, if they have chosen to wear a coloured shoe!

New spin on pearls – Brides who love pearls are now going a fresher route and choosing pearls in black, grey, blush and other pastels.  

Statement Necklaces – Stylish “bib” necklaces are all the rage this year or for those who think those are too daring – long, layered necklaces or chunky “torsade” necklaces (multiple strands of pearls or beads, twisted and held together with a clasp) can also be just as dramatic. These types of necklaces are best for simpler wedding gowns and also work especially well for sleek strapless-styled dresses.  

Wrist Wear- This year, is all about statement cuffs (filigree, studded or solid) as well as stacks of varied bangles, for example pearl bangles interspersed with diamond or rhinestone bangles.

Earrings – Chandelier and shoulder sweeping earrings are still “in,” particularly those that are in the geometric, Art Deco style.

Rings – apart from the engagement ring, trendy brides are now wearing cocktail rings, which feature large real or faux gemstones.

Eco-friendly jewelry – There is now greater interest from brides about jewellery that is ethically-mined, recycled or hand-crafted.

Insider tips for that perfect wedding photo

Like it or not, if you’re the bride, all spotlights are going to be on you for your wedding. If this makes you feel a bit self conscious and camera-shy; don’t worry, there are methods to camouflage what you don’t like and yes…in certain instances there are even ways to fool the camera!

Here are some tips:

Makeup

(1)  Use water-proof makeup - which is made with ingredients that repel water. The first step for face coverage, is to ask your makeup artist for water-proof versions of: primer, concealer, foundation, setting powder and lipsticks or lip stains. Primer helps makeup go on evenly and prevents creasing and caking of your foundation. Waterproof cream-based blushes tend to stay well-pigmented on the skin and last throughout the day. This is in contrast to powder blushes, which may need re-applications.

Wearing waterproof mascara is also essential. It is good for standing up to light perspiration or minimal eye-watering.

Airbrushed makeup and mineral makeup also stand the test of time and heat. They also tend to have a more natural look. An added bonus is that most mineral makeup lines tend to provide both UVA and UVB protection for your skin.

(2)  Touch ups – Always have some pressed powder or oil-blotting papers on hand to freshen up your makeup. A critical area for touch ups are the eyes; since natural oils produced by the eyelids can cause eyeshadows to pool in the creases. 

Posing

(3)  Observe proper posture –Always try to be aware of creating height in photos. When sitting or standing, try to maintain a straight back with relaxed shoulders (this requires some practice!), keep your tummy in and wear your best smile. However, avoid sticking your chest out!

(4)  Use your bouquet effectively - The majority of photographers will recommend that when you pose with your bouquet; you rest your lower arm softly against your hip bones. This avoids the unnatural look of brides trying to angle their hips away from the camera.

Close-up photos may require you to hold your bouquet above your waist; and for full length shots, you can try holding your bouquet below the waist.

(5)  Knowing your “best side” – if you’re self-conscious about your double chin, how a particular side of your face looks or a particular type of angle (for example, a side profile photo) be sure to let your photographer know in advance so that he/she can suggest solutions.   

Timing

(1)  Ask your photographer to shoot during early morning or late afternoon, in order to give your skin a softer and warmer tone.

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What’s hot in bridal shoes for 2012?

Based on a request from Disney Studios to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of Cinderella; renowned French shoe designer Christian Louboutin, was recently asked to create a modern “glass slipper.”

His stunning, final design was a lace shoe – to give the effect of transparency. The shoe was studded with crystals, two crystal butterflies and an entirely crystal encrusted heel.

The current collections of bridal shoes are now no less intricate and eye-catching. In terms of embellishments, brides are leaning towards shoes featuring: lace, bows, crystals, brooches, sequins, feathers, and ruffles.

Here are some of 2012’s top bridal shoe trends: 

Metallics – metallic shoes are “in” not only because of the glitz they bring but also because of their versatility. Pewter, bronze, silver and gold shoes can certainly be worn again after the wedding.

Prints – brides are foregoing the typical white or ivory bridal shoe for interesting prints in florals, geometric and even animal prints.

Pastels – pastel shoes are having a resurgence, perhaps because of the popularity of vintage-themed weddings. Favourite colours for shoes are: mint, lavender, blush pink, and baby blue.

Colour – the coloured bridal shoe trend has been around for the past two years. This year, a different take on colour comes from neon and with colour-blocked shoes (shoes with different bands of colour).

Cap toe shoes – these are shoes with a “cap” of metallic or a “cap” of colour or different fabric to the front of the shoe. They were first made popular by Coco Chanel.

Velvet – velvet shoes are currently the “it” shoes for bridal. Again, this type of lush fabric goes very well with weddings that have a vintage theme.  

Peep-toe platforms – these types of shoes are favoured by brides because of their comfort factor. The platforms to the front of the shoe are more comfortable than regular stilettos since feet don’t have to arch very high.

Bridal wedges – wedges are now being glamed up with crystals, pretty straps and other embellishments. They are perfect for garden weddings.

The “unconventional” – some brides are going the quirky route by choosing personalized Converse sneakers, ballet flats and custom-painted pumps. Some do-it-yourself brides are choosing to decorate their own shoes by doing hand-appliqués and applying their own crystals.  

For more wedding articles, click here: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Bridal Hair & Makeup Trends for 2012

Last year the bridal beauty watchwords were “natural and luminous.”

The emphasis was on the bride showcasing healthy, glowing skin; and there was widespread use of highlighter, bronzer or face shimmer, as well as peachy, coral or pink shades of blush.

This year, the look in bridal makeup is “romantic, feminine and retro,” with a profusion of pink and orange blush tones, pretty pastel eyes and dramatic lips.

Some trends in bridal hair and makeup trends for this year are:

Eyes - The smoky eye with the nude lip combination remains popular, however, this year, pastel eyeshadows in colours such as: lavender, mint green, pink and peach, are in vogue. These demure eye colours are being juxtaposed with false eyelashes or heavy mascara application and/or liquid eyeliner.  Alternatively, the eyes can be kept very neutral with colour enhancing the bride’s face, from a brighter choice of blush and lipstick.

Lip Colour – Many brides are going for a more “retro glam” type of makeup, preferring a neutral eye, in exchange for a deeper lip colour. These vibrant colours are replacing the nude and sheer lips of previous years. Last year’s lip “it” colours were deep mauve, cranberry, red and rose. This year, red will stay but bright pink, coral and orange-toned lips will be popular. There will be a preference of lipsticks versus lip glosses.

Hair – The most popular hairstyle for this year’s modern bride will be the chignon or ballerina bun. An embellished headband or a veil worn away from the face is a perfect complement to this hairstyle. More and more brides are choosing to wear their hair up or away from the face.

Bridal hairstyles with loose waves and soft curls will also be seen. These natural and “easy” hairstyles are a stark contrast to the formal, up-do’s of years gone by.

Brides who still favour a more structured hairstyle can choose the very vintage-like pin curls or a modern take on the “bee hive” hairdo.   

Creative Cake Toppers

The tiny plastic, bride and groom figurines, which were popularized in the 1950’s are now a far cry from the cake toppers which are used today. Some people believe that the trend of cake toppers started with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s wedding cake in 1840, upon which, there was a figurine of the goddess Brittania, blessing the newlyweds. Shortly after this, cake toppers began to be mass-produced in the 1890's.

Modern cake toppers now come in a selection of ethnicities and materials, such as: glass, wire, acrylic, resin and porcelain. Flowers, sculptures, and large monogrammed letters are replacing the traditional bride and groom cake toppers.



All embellishments, including the topper on this cake are made of sugar!
Photographed at Lenotre - Paris, France
Photo copyright: Trinidad weddings 2010

Here are some ideas:

Monogram or initial cake toppers in Swarovski crystals - not only do these appear in clear crystals but now can be customized with coloured crystals (for e.g. in pink, red etc.) for a co-ordinated look. Small wooden dowels are usually inserted into the bottom of each letter, to make it ready to be inserted into the cake

Cake jewellery – these typically hang off the top of the cake from wires and are usually in the shape of hearts, birds, stars and butterflies.

Figurines that represent your hobbies - e.g. a groom fishing for his bride or a groom golfing or playing football etc.

Fresh flowers - this option is much more affordable than having sugar or gum paste flowers made and you can personalize it by having some of the same flowers that appear in your bouquet, appear on the top of your cake, or you can have the flowers that appear on your invitations ( e.g. roses, calla lilies) , appear as “live” versions on your cake.

A walk on the wild side – Acrylic toppers in zebra and leopard print

Birds – This year, natural motifs are very popular on cakes. Birds, in particular, especially handmade ones made from wood, porcelain, burlap and polymer clay are being seen.

Fondant figurines – if you have a very skilled cake artist he/she can make customized figurines for you out of fondant icing.

Themed – if you are fan of a particular cartoon or show, you can select toppers to suit for e.g. Disney or Star Trek characters.

How to choose your wedding colours

This year, the Pantone Colour Institute predicts that the reigning colour at weddings will be tangerine. The last time we saw this hue so popular was in 2009, when wedding decor ran the gamut from burnt oranges to vibrant tangerines.

In 2010 there was a new-comer - the colour turquoise. At that time, it was all the rage for turquoise to be paired with chocolate brown or for a more vintage, retro effect it was combined with red or yellow. It was also popularly paired with burgundy or black for more of a modern flair and drama. The turquoise craze was followed by a pinkish-coral colour in 2011, that Pantone dubbed “Honeysuckle.”

Here’s a guide to selecting a colour scheme

1.    The location of your wedding could be a beginning point in choosing your colours, for example, if it will be held in a rustic setting or outdoors, you may choose more earthy colours to complement it. However, if it is in a hotel ballroom, you can select colours that would match with the existing décor that’s in the room.

2.    The theme of your wedding can also guide you about colour selection, for instance, if you have chosen a “nautical” theme, you can go with navy blues, crisp whites and bright reds, or if you have selected a “tropical” theme, you can choose oranges, pinks and yellows.

3.    When selecting a colour, always consider the mood you would like to create or as we say locally, what’s the “vibe” of your wedding? This is where you get to determine the mindset you would like to set for your guests – for example, ethereal and romantic? Trendy and modern? Remember that the more vivid the colours you select, the more upbeat and dramatic your wedding’s mood will seem. Colours like red, purples, oranges and yellows set a mood of fun and lend excitement. If you select milder, more muted or metallic colours, these will lend themselves to a more elegant or sophisticated ambience.  

4.    Start an inspiration board – use a bulletin board or even a paper folder and save magazine clippings or photos that inspire your wedding colour choices. Visit your local fabric stores or hardware stores and watch the paint charts, to see what colours or prints catch your eye. Then ask for swatches, so that you can add them to your inspiration board to help with your decision-making. Another great idea is to show your inspiration board to your florist, your cake artists as well as your decorator.  This will help them get a better sense of how you envision your wedding’s décor.  If you want to explore virtual inspiration boards, you can visit www.pinterest.com

5.    Choose a primary colour and one or two secondary colours. It may not be a good idea to select more than three colours because it will make your wedding palette look confused.  

6.    Be open to more unusual colour combinations or trios such as:

·         Blush pink and grey

·         Gold and teal

·         Gray, yellow, navy blue

·         Fuchsia, black and turquoise

·         Black, white and yellow

·         Plum, chocolate brown and yellow

·         Aqua, teal and yellow

·         Coral, kiwi-green and ivory

And lastly, when selecting your colours, always be yourself and don’t be afraid to break with tradition. Your guests will be delighted by a wedding that is not the “same old!” Go back to http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Modern, unique wedding ideas for the Trini bride – in 2012 issue of Trinidad Weddings’ Bridal Magazine

Hi TW-ers

We're about to launch the 3rd issue of our Bridal Magazine, the 2012 Collector's Edition TW Wed-Zine!

The launch of our 2012 magazine takes place at Booth D, The Exclusive Wedding Show, during March 24 and 25, 2012 at Movietowne’s Banquet & Conference Centre in Trinidad. Our mag will be sold at an introductory price of TT$25.00 to expo visitors only, before it hits leading retailers, bookshops and pharmacies, from April 2012. This year, with our 3rd magazine, we’ve shared creative ideas and feature articles on real weddings that have interesting wedding themes and details. We have also unveiled local resources and vendors, to help Trinidadian brides with their wedding planning. As always, we wanted to recognize our readers from around the world and bring different cultures together. So, in this issue, you can see what it would be like to have a wedding in Sri Lanka, and even explore the rich history and details of Syrian weddings in Trinidad and Tobago. We not only wanted to portray the very best of what we have in our local wedding industry but our mission is to be the go-to-source for reporting on the latest happenings and cutting-edge trends in the Caribbean and international bridal scene as well. For example, we give our readers a review of New York’s Bridal Fashion Week and some of the fashion designers' collections that were launched there. It is our hope to show brides modern ideas and inspire them to be unique with their style and with their weddings! Our magazine also highlights the launch of our hand-made Bridal Fashion Accessory Line, Zara Simone. You can see the entire line at http://www.facebook.com/ZaraSimoneAccessories For more, visit our magazine’s Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/wedzine

Centrepiece Trends 2012

This year, modern brides are going for more of an understated elegance regarding their centrepiece decor. They are also embracing the vintage trend and making themes and mementoes of bygone eras (such as the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s) feature prominently on their wedding day.

Here are some of the trends for this year:

1.    The use of succulents/cacti and herbs (think rosemary, mint and basil!) in centerpieces. Other trendy “green” accents are moss and wheat grass.

2.    Tablescapes – the use of multiple arrangements, sometimes in varying heights, in combination with candles and accessories such as: pearls, antique books, frames, birdcages, lanterns, crystals, twigs, birds’ nests, terrariums, bark, feathers, fruit, seashells and photos.

3.    Do-it-yourself (DIY) Flowers – There has been an increase in the “non-flower,” i.e. flowers that are hand-made from fabric, buttons, brooches, paper (tissue, origami or collage) and even pompoms.

4.    Sparkle – brides are embracing glitz in their centrepieces by introducing crystal drops and strands and more metallic accents.

5.    Lampshade Centre pieces – Lampshades are now making an appearance centre-side! Whether it’s made from fabric, or a lampshade created out of fresh flowers, the effect is nothing short of dramatic! (* See last photo in slide show above for a lampshade made out of flowers)
 

6.    Mix and match – Brides are going for more visual interest and choosing to mix different styles, heights or colours of centrepieces, instead of the identical centrepiece on each table.

7.    Floating flowers! – Centrepieces are now hanging from the ceiling! Blooms are now being suspended from lanterns, glass vases or cones. Another alternative are hanging garlands, flower chandeliers and pomanders

The slide show to the top right above, shows some of the centrepieces that I saw at New York’s Bridal Fashion Week in April and October 2011.  

Fabulous Wedding Ideas for 2012

2011 was popularised as the year of “vintage” and “do-it-yourself,” for weddings, however, make way for the return of elegance, romance and sophistication with the coming of 2012.
 

Here are 6 unique and easily implementable ideas for 2012:

Get guests to be interactive! – Offer up a dessert station where you can combine favours and goodies in one. You can have displays of candies, truffles, pastries, doughnuts, cookies, cup cakes and pies; then, provide guests with decorative bags, boxes or tins to take away their favourites. Have someone supervise the buffet station, so they can offer assistance and ensure all guests get a fair share!

Home-spun decorative accents –“Do-it-yourself” accents will still remain popular for weddings this year. Many brides will be looking at doing hand-crafted flowers made of paper, fabric, buttons or feathers to add a more personal touch to their decor. Some brides may even forego the floral bouquet and make their own, out of vintage brooches or feathers.

Orange is it! – The Pantone Colour Institute has named its colour of the year for 2012 as “Tangerine Tango” – a bold, reddish-orange that is sure to be a hit as an accent colour for wedding decor and on wedding cakes, this year. If orange is too bright for you, try the more subtle shade of coral.

Food stations – Inject an element of fun with your food, with an unusual food station, such as a sushi or a “baked potato bar,”where guests can choose their own toppings such as: cheddar cheese, bacon, chives, sour cream etc. You can even try a soup station, an omelette station ( perfect for a brunch wedding!), a burger “bar”( a great choice for the "after-party!") or an ice-cream station!

Royal Style – 2011’s Royal wedding of Kate Middleton to Prince William, will continue to influence weddings into 2012. There will be a resurgence of lace in wedding gowns but in a more modern way, with: lace sleeves, non-traditional lace patterns and the use of lace as an overlay over coloured fabric. Lace and lace motifs or wraps, will also be seen on invitations. The Royal wedding also made the idea of using "flower girls" more popular and encouraged the use of nature-inspired accents - for example, the eight, twenty-foot high trees that were used inside Westminster Abbey.

Cakes – This year, even the cake gets some “bling” - with the advent of metallic cakes in silver and gold. Your cake artist can achieve this look with edible metallic paints and by using shimmer or pearl dust over fondant. Chocolate fondant cakes will also continue to be trendy this year.