First of all, the ubiquitous strapless silhouette has finally loosened its grip on the bridesmaid collections. Bridesmaids, breathe a sigh of relief! No more tugging and pulling on ill-fitting strapless bridesmaid dresses that always seem to slip at just the wrong moment. You may actually get to wear a dress with straps if you are an attendant in a 2010 wedding!

One of the styles to take the place of all strapless, all the time is the classic bateau neck. An immensely flattering and graceful neckline that brings to mind Audrey Hepburn, there is plenty to love about a bateau neck bridesmaid dress. Shown in gorgeous colors like rich purple at Melissa Sweet, a bateau neckline gown with a full A-line skirt is an ideal accompaniment to the 1950s inspired bridal gowns that dominated the runways for 2010. Such a classic dress should be finished off with equally timeless accessories, such as pearl bridesmaid jewelry sets.

Brides who want a hip and modern bridesmaid dress will adore the one shoulder dresses that are available for 2010. Sleek and contemporary, a knee length one shoulder bridesmaid dress is a fantastic choice for a wedding with a city chic flair. Match it with one of the slinky sheath style bridal gowns which are in vogue. Killer shoes and dramatic bridesmaid earrings are a must with this hot attendants’ dress.

For long bridesmaid dresses, soft chiffon is one of the most popular fabrics. Seen in a neutral charcoal gray at Amsale or a lovely periwinkle at Badgley Mischka, floor length chiffon gowns are a stunning option for a formal wedding, day or evening. The gowns feature special details such as draped bodices, flattering halter necklines, or soft ruffles which set them apart from the boring bridesmaid dresses of years past. Perhaps the best thing about these elegant new bridesmaid gowns is that they do not scream “bridesmaid”. They are actually stylish enough that they could (gasp!) be worn again later.

Color is an important factor in the look of a bridal party, and there is an interesting range of options for the 2010 bridesmaid dress collections. Noticeably absent are a lot of “safe” or pastel colors. Charcoal gray has emerged as a surprisingly wearable top color choice for bridesmaids. Deep colors like purple and ink blue are popular, as are bold colors such as vivid sunset orange. A new trend is very pale and ethereal colors which are not much darker than the color of the bride’s dress. When made in soft and floaty fabrics like chiffon, the pale bridesmaid dresses will create an almost otherworldly effect. Complete the look with sets of bridesmaid jewelry in clear crystal.

Whatever your style, there will be a bridesmaid dress that suits it. Remember to first select your wedding gown before falling in love with a bridesmaid style. After all, as much as you want your ‘maids to look gorgeous, you want to make sure that they complement your attire as much as possible.

About the Author Laura Firenze

Laura helps brides with their wedding plans by offering advice on selecting bridesmaids gifts,reception ideas and other aspects of planning a wedding. Sets of bridesmaid jewelry are a fabulous bridesmaid gift idea.

Swoon Bridesmaid Wedding Dress Photo by Amy Wong Mucucci

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Bridesmaid’s Quilted Hanging Cosmetic Case $32.00

Bridesmaid’s Quilted Cosmetic Wristlet $18.00

Bridesmaid’s Quilted Duffle Bag $36.00

Personalized Jewelry Roll From $18.00

Women’s Cosmetic Bag From $22.00

Greek Hanging Cosmetic Bag $32.00

Personalized Toiletry Bag From $25.00

2 Piece Cosmetic Set $29.00

3-Piece Terry Cloth Cosmetic Bags From $26.00

Metro Hanging Toiletry Bag $28.00

Silver Stamp Luggage Tags (Set of 2) Original Retail: $22.00 Now: $9.76 From $9.76

Striped Cosmetic Bag $22.00

Striped Canvas Tote Bag $32.00

Damask Fabric Tote Bag $39.00

Flower Girl Dress-Up Tote $18.00

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Choosing bridal attendant gifts can be fun area of the wedding planning process and there are now so many options available today that you are sure to find something perfect. Just give it some thought and consider the following options:

Choose something personalized. Whether it be a personalized picture frame that they can later put a picture of the two of you together in after the wedding or a personal gift that you know they would enjoy, such as a fuzzy robe or a pair of earrings, making the gift personal whether that means personalized by you or a gift of a more personal nature. You can truly add an extra special touch and let them know you appreciate them by choosing something like this.

Stick with your wedding theme. On the other hand you may have a highly themed wedding where you want the gifts that you provide to match the theme and help your attendants to remember the event as a whole. Use your theme to let your imagination run wild.

Feed them. Not literally, but food does make a great gift. Whether it be a basket of snacks and homemade goodies or a box of gourmet chocolates, show them love and appreciation through food. There aren’t many people who would turn that down. You could even do a gift card to a local restaurant which they could use while they are in town for the wedding.

When it comes to choosing your bridal attendant gifts the most important thing to remember is that you want them to know that you appreciate them. Remember, with any gift, it is the thought that counts.

Erica Brooks is the owner of SimplyElegantBridalAccessories.com where she offers brides elegant bridal accessories, bridal favors and inexpensive wedding ideas to help them to plan the wedding of their dreams while saving money.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

One thing that all preppy brides have in common is their love for clean lines and classic silhouettes. In bridesmaid dresses, this translates to simple A-line dresses, which are often (though not always) strapless. Depending on the formality and location of your wedding, any length from just above the knee to tea length to floor length could work. Needless to say, only natural fibers are an option!

A favorite of preppy brides everywhere are the whimsical designs of Lilly Pulitzer. Always cheerful and bright, Lilly dresses are ideal for less formal bridesmaid dresses. Best of all, your friends will have plenty of chances to wear them after the wedding, since they are not specifically bridesmaid dresses. Lilly’s strapless dresses tend to be the most popular for weddings, as they are a bit dressier than the classic shifts. Slip on a set of pearl bridesmaid jewelry and a cute pair of sandals, and your ‘maids will be picture perfect. A bonus is that you can coordinate the rest of the wedding party with the bridesmaids; there are dresses in matching fabrics for little flower girls and even Lilly print neckties for the men in the bridal party.

If your wedding is a bit dressier, you may prefer to choose bridesmaid dresses that are not so boldly patterned. The first color that springs to mind for preppy bridesmaid dresses is pink, perhaps with a lime green accent. A strapless dress that hits just below the knee would look wonderful in a pink silk shantung (in any season) or silk organza (spring and summer only). Add to the appeal with a cheerful sash at the waist in lime green, or perhaps a silk patterned Vineyard Vines waist sash for a little more flair. White pearls would be timeless and pretty, or you could have custom sets of bridesmaid jewelry created from pretty pink Swarovski pearls. A tin cup necklace style would be perfect for the simplicity of this type of bridesmaid dress.

Most preppy brides and grooms love the water. If your wedding is going to be held at a yacht club or oceanside, think about navy blue bridesmaid dresses. The crisp combination of navy blue and white always looks fresh for a nautical wedding. Navy faille dresses would be marvelous, especially accented with a bit of white piping around the neckline and at the waist. Strapless is always nice, but another neckline that would work very well is a slightly squared scoopneck. The dresses can be long or shorter, depending on the time of day and the formality of your event. A very cute accessory for your bridesmaids would be little clutch handbags covered in a navy and white nautical rope patterned silk. They could even carry the clutches instead of bouquets for a chic look.

Choosing preppy bridesmaid dresses is actually fairly easy, as the styles you seek will be timeless and readily available. In addition to the option mentioned above, you might also consider seersucker or madras plaid dresses for a summer bridal party. The options are really limitless; it is all a matter of selecting the dresses that best suit your bridesmaids and your wedding style.

Look to Bridget for advice on planning your wedding. Check out how we can help with your bridesmaids jewelry at SilverlandJewelry.com. For a preppy wedding, you can’t beat the classic combination of Lilly Pulitzer dresses with pearl bridesmaid jewelry.

Photo by LillyPulitzer.com

Preppy Wedding Gift Ideas for Your Bridesmaids

“Dreams Do Come True” Satin Eye Mask Price: As low as $3.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Jewelry Pouch Price: $8.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Flip-Flops Price: $14.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Cosmetic Travel Bag Price: $10.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed 5 Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.70	Shimmer & Stripes – Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Price: $5.23

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

“Sew Perfect” Classic Houndstooth Sewing Kit Price: As low as $1.75

“Cosmetic Couture” Quilted Monogrammed Make-Up Bag Price: $5.00

“Little Black Purse” Patent-Leather Five-Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.50

“Pink Polka Flip Flop” Five Piece Pedicure Set with Matching “Thank you” Tag Price: As low as $3.70	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Koozie Price: As low as $3.50	“Knotted Couture” Monogrammed Quilted Tote Bag Price: $19.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Purse Mirror Price: As low as $2.50	“Slice of Style” Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server Price: As low as $2.99	Welcome to Our Wedding” Canvas Tote Bag (Can be Personalized) Price: $15.00
“Dreams Do Come True” Satin Eye Mask Price: As low as $3.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Jewelry Pouch Price: $8.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Flip-Flops Price: $14.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Cosmetic Travel Bag Price: $10.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed 5 Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.70	Shimmer & Stripes – Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Price: $5.23

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

You might ask your mom or other married friends if throwing a bridesmaids’ luncheon is necessary. As a new a bride, you might have several questions in mind: Why is it required? Where does it take place? How will ever pay that? Well, you don’t have to panic yourself because bridesmaids’ luncheon is entirely optional, and no lone will blame you of skipping this tradition.

The Host
The host of the luncheon could be either the bride or bridesmaids. The bride will host the luncheon to honor the bridesmaids, or it can be the other way around. However today, this event is mostly hosted by the bride, as a way of thanking them for their efforts. The guests of the luncheon may include the bridesmaids (of course), and other female relatives and friends involved in the wedding.

The Schedule
The name itself doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be, well, a luncheon. This event is usually held on the day before the nuptial, or during the wedding day itself. The foods are typically quite light: salads; finger sandwiches; sherbet; cake; fruits. Today, however, luncheons can be celebrated as dinner at a restaurant, café, home, spa or other places where it is comfortable to throw a luncheon.

The Cake
The bridesmaids’ cake is usually associated with the luncheon. The details of the cake may vary, depending on your preferences, but is often pink and includes a coin, thimble or ring that is baked in. each bridesmaid will be given a slice of cake, and whoever has the trinket in her cake is thought to be the next lady to get married.

Planning bridesmaids’ luncheon is optional, but if considered, one can get very creative and unique. There are lots of great ideas a hostess can choose from. Among the popular are spa themed bridesmaids’ luncheon, co-ed event with the groom-to-be and groomsmen, sporting luncheon, and movie luncheon.

A bridesmaids’ luncheon is also a perfect time to present bridesmaids gifts to bridesmaids. While you want to honor your bridesmaids, it is also a great idea to involve gift-giving, which symbolizes your thanks and appreciation for them. Your bridesmaids have done tremendous things just to help make your wedding day possible. They are your friends who will always be there for you no matter what. So to give back, presenting gifts is the least thing you can do to make them happy and feel appreciated.

Bridesmaids gifts come in a wide variety of items to choose from. These gifts can be purchased in both local and online stores. Among the most popular personalized bridesmaids gifts include personalized handbags, personalized jewelry gifts, bridesmaids apparel, compact mirrors, cosmetic bags, picture frames, and many others. Make these gift items personalized with their names or initials, or you can even add a personal message or a short line of poem to make gifts even more special and memorable.

Janet is an author for a variety of lifestyle issues and topics including weddings. If you’re looking for unique bridesmaid gifts, visit the website Mybridesmaidsgifts.com and browse their extensive collection. Find wedding party gifts to make your wedding extra special!

Charming Bridesmaid Gifts

“Cosmetic Couture” Quilted Monogrammed Make-Up Bag Price: $5.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Koozie Price: As low as $3.50	“Knotted Couture” Monogrammed Quilted Tote Bag Price: $19.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Purse Mirror Price: As low as $2.50	“Slice of Style” Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server Price: As low as $2.99	Welcome to Our Wedding” Canvas Tote Bag (Can be Personalized) Price: $15.00
“Dreams Do Come True” Satin Eye Mask Price: As low as $3.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Jewelry Pouch Price: $8.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Flip-Flops Price: $14.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Cosmetic Travel Bag Price: $10.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed 5 Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.70	Shimmer & Stripes – Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Price: $5.23

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

First of all, they are all individuals. Your best friend from college and your cousin from Nebraska do not necessarily have the same taste in clothing, the same figure, or the same type of hair. In fact, in many groups of bridesmaids, the women do not have that much in common, other than caring about the bride. This is okay! Bridesmaids do not need to be clones, and the bride should not try to force them into a mold. Let each woman express her own individuality on your wedding day. It will in no way detract from the beauty of the day.

Your bridesmaids also want you to know that they would prefer not to spend $400 on a dress that they will never wear again. A considerate bride either chooses a dress that everyone can afford, or allows each attendant to pick her own dress within certain guidelines. What bridesmaids really love is getting to wear a black cocktail dress from their own closet, but do not feel obligated to go this far in appeasing them; it is reasonable to expect the bridesmaid dresses to be appropriate for the style of your wedding, and a black party dress does not always fit the bill.

The ladies in your wedding party would also like to mention that they are hoping for handsome groomsmen to escort them down the aisle. Now this may not be directly within your control, but if you could just pass on a hint to the groom? After all, it is a known fact that many relationships blossom at wedding receptions!

Something else that your bridesmaids would like to tell you (but are probably too sweet to say) is that their lives continue even while you are in the midst of planning your wedding. It is certainly fine to ask a bridesmaid to help you out with some of the wedding planning, after all, she should not have agreed to the position if she was unwilling to be a part of things. However, don’t talk incessantly about your wedding every time that you are together. Take a few moments to chat about what it happening in your bridesmaid’s life as well.

“Bridesmaid” Two Tone Tote	2 Section Wine Carry Bag	Flower & Pear Drop in Silver Jewelry
Garden Necklace & Earring Set	Heart Shaped Plates	Key Fob with Cable

One thing that your bridesmaids really want you to know is that they appreciate being appreciated. Host a ladies’ luncheon a few days before your wedding as a chance to get everyone together and express your gratitude for all they have done for you. This is the perfect chance to present them with gifts to show your thanks, such as bridesmaid jewelry. The best bridesmaid gifts are those with lasting and sentimental value, such as jewelry or a silver picture frame.

Of course, last but not least, your bridesmaids would like you to know how happy they are for you. This is the one thing on this list that they will likely be able to express to you personally. And of course, bridesmaids also want the bride to know that they will remember if she chose a pretty dress for them or not when it is time to switch roles one day in the future.

About the Author Laura Firenze

Finding the whole process of weddings and all the planning that goes into one fascinating, Laura writes about many of the considerations that brides have to deal with. Show your friends how much you care with lovely bridesmaid jewelry.

Bridesmaids Gifts Ideas

“Cosmetic Couture” Quilted Monogrammed Make-Up Bag Price: $5.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Koozie Price: As low as $3.50	“Knotted Couture” Monogrammed Quilted Tote Bag Price: $19.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Purse Mirror Price: As low as $2.50	“Slice of Style” Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server Price: As low as $2.99	Welcome to Our Wedding” Canvas Tote Bag (Can be Personalized) Price: $15.00
“Dreams Do Come True” Satin Eye Mask Price: As low as $3.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Jewelry Pouch Price: $8.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Flip-Flops Price: $14.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Cosmetic Travel Bag Price: $10.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed 5 Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.70	Shimmer & Stripes – Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Price: $5.23

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

When you find out that one of your bridesmaids is going to have a baby, naturally your first reaction is going to be joy. After all, she is one of your closest friends, or even a sister, so you will be thrilled about her good news. It would be only natural, however, to also have some concerns about how this new development will impact your wedding. Of course, you wouldn’t say anything about it at the time your friend is sharing her joyous news, but it is only human to have that selfish moment where you wonder what this is going to do to your wedding party. As long as you handle the situation with tact and thoughtfulness, everything can surely be worked out in a positive way.

Of course one of the biggest questions is how close your bridesmaid’s due date is to your wedding date. If she is going to be in her 9th month, or perhaps even have the baby shortly before your wedding, it would be best all around if she resigns her role as bridesmaid. There is no easy way to suggest to a friend that she should drop out of your bridal party, and so you should not ask her to. It would be perfectly fine, however, to mention to her that you would not be at all offended if she felt like planning to be in your wedding right around her due date was too much to manage. The chances are that she will be relieved to be let off the hook without hurting your feelings.

Often when a bridesmaid cannot practically serve, you can find another ceremonial role for her in honor of your close relationship that will be less demanding. You could ask her to do a reading during your ceremony or perhaps to sit by the guest book and greet your guests as they enter the reception. These special duties will let everyone know that this person is important to you, yet they will not be physically taxing for a woman who is advanced in her pregnancy. Of course, you would want to have a substitute lined up in case she was unable to attend at the last minute.

If she will not be as far along, there is no reason to expect a pregnant bridesmaid to step down (unless of course, she feels is is necessary, in which case the bride must graciously accept her wishes). Gone are the days when people who have looked askew at an obviously pregnant member of the bridal party standing up at the altar. There are actually maternity styles available for bridesmaids in certain collections, which goes to show that this is quite a common situation. Allow the pregnant bridesmaid to select a style of dress in which she feels comfortable, as long as it is in your chosen color. For instance, if the rest of the bridal party is wearing a pink strapless dress, she might wear a dress in the same colors with spaghetti straps or a v-neck. Another accommodation that you will want to make is to have a chair for her during the ceremony, even if the rest of the wedding party will remain standing.

Whether she is able to participate in the wedding ceremony or not, be sure to include your pregnant bridesmaid in all of the pre-wedding festivities and to give her one of the bridesmaid gifts. Even if in the end she cannot attend your wedding, the bridesmaid gifts and party invitations are a way of letting her know how much you value her friendship. Because it is friendship, after all, that is the whole point of having bridesmaids stand up with you at your wedding.

About the Author Laura Firenze

Laura helps brides with their wedding plans by offering advice on selecting bridesmaids gifts,reception ideas and other aspects of planning a wedding. Thank your friends for being a part of your wedding with beautiful and unique bridesmaid gifts.

Bridesmaid Dress by Alfred Sung available at Victoria’s Bridal Couture

Bridesmaid Gifts

“Cosmetic Couture” Quilted Monogrammed Make-Up Bag Price: $5.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Koozie Price: As low as $3.50	“Knotted Couture” Monogrammed Quilted Tote Bag Price: $19.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Purse Mirror Price: As low as $2.50	“Slice of Style” Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server Price: As low as $2.99	Welcome to Our Wedding” Canvas Tote Bag (Can be Personalized) Price: $15.00
“Dreams Do Come True” Satin Eye Mask Price: As low as $3.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Jewelry Pouch Price: $8.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Flip-Flops Price: $14.99
“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed Cosmetic Travel Bag Price: $10.00	“The Cosmopolitan” Monogrammed 5 Piece Manicure Set Price: As low as $3.70	Shimmer & Stripes – Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Price: $5.23

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

In the fall, it is fun to incorporate some of the rich colors of the turning leaves into your wedding. One really neat idea would be to have your flower girl sprinkle leaves down the aisle instead of flower petals. Nice quality silk leaves in reds, oranges, and golds would make a lovely path for the bride to walk upon as she marches down the aisle. Use silk leaves to avoid the noisy crunching sound that real fall leaves make underfoot.

Another nice idea for a fall wedding is to dress your flower girl in a warm autumnal color, rather than white. A dupioni dress in burgundy, golden yellow, or burnt orange would be ideal. You can also pin a silk flower in a fall color to the sash of her dress for a sweet accent. A fluffy organza flower would be wonderful.

You can also think about highlighting the season when you choose the headpiece and flower girl jewelry for your little one. A delicate strand of crystals in your wedding colors would be a sweet little jewelry gift for your flower girl. Create a wreath for her hair in real or silk flowers in rich fall colors, accented by ribbon streamers cascading down the back. So adorable!

Should you be having a Halloween wedding, this is a really cute idea for an older flower girl: instead of a basket or bouquet of flowers, have her carry a tiny pumpkin. Carve your initials or another wedding motif into the jack o’lantern, and light it from within with a battery powered tea light (never a real candle). Dim the lights, and watch her float down the aisle with this most unique flower girl bouquet substitute. It will be something that your guests will never forget.

Winter lends itself to all sorts of special things for flower girls too. The most obvious is with a velvet flower girl dress in forest green, claret, or navy. Tie it up with a big satin sash for the most charming holiday flower girl dress ever. If you want to make it even sweeter, look for a velvet dress with a white lace collar, or have a seamstress add a lace collar to a dress for you if you cannot find the perfect one ready-made.

For your little wintertime flower girl, one adorable idea would be to have her carry a white faux fur muff instead of a bouquet or basket. Pin a small corsage of holly and poinsettia flowers to the white muff to make it extra special (faux flowers are best for a younger girl, as poinsettias can be toxic if eaten). For her hair, pull back the sides and let the fall down her back in soft curls. Finish it off with a sprig of holly on a barrette for the perfect holiday look.

Flower girls are so much fun, and you can have even more fun when you plan something special for her to wear and carry. Take advantage of the best that the season has to offer, and be creative. You will find that your flower girl becomes an even more charming part of your wedding.

About the Author Bridget Mora

Look to Bridget for advice on planning your wedding. Check out how we can help with your bridesmaids jewelry at SilverlandJewelry.com. Flower girl jewelry is the perfect gift for your sweet little attendant.

Flower Girl Jewelry Gift Ideas

Little Girl’s Flower Charm Bracelet $20.00	Little Girl’s Heart Charm Bracelet $20.00	Sparkling Heart Locket Jewelry Set $26.00
Sweet Sparkle Flower Girl Jewelry Set From $27.00	Traditional Pearl Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00	Cross Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00
Delicate Rose Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Little Girl’s Flower Charm Bracelet $20.00	Little Girl’s Heart Charm Bracelet $20.00	Sparkling Heart Locket Jewelry Set $26.00
Sweet Sparkle Flower Girl Jewelry Set From $27.00	Traditional Pearl Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00	Cross Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00
Delicate Rose Flower Girl Jewelry Set $22.00

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.