Review: Visit to Grace Bridal Boutique

Grace Bridal Boutique- where do I begin? This lovely shop is located in Downtown Excelsior on Lake Minnetonka. The moment you step in the shop you know that a lot of time, thought, and care went into establishing this new shop. As I entered, I expected to be treated that way as well. Upon leaving- I really felt that I had been taken care of and that the special purchase of a bridal gown was treated as sacred and special- not something you rush into.

Grace Bridal Boutique carries wedding gowns, brides maids, mothers dresses, accessories and tuxedos.

Jocelyn is the owner, she greeted me when I entered. Be prepared to take your shoes off when you enter- but with gowns priced between $2000 and $4000 who wouldn't want to help keep the gowns and shop exquisite? The store is very comfortable to navigate, and Jocelyn works with you to filter through the gowns to find exactly what you're looking for. After welcoming me in and explaining the trunk show for Badgley Mischka. Jocelyn asked if I had been dress shopping yet and when I responded yes we dove into what elements and styles I have liked and what I don't like.

There was no limit on the number of dresses I could pull and try on. The fitting rooms are well lit and thoughtfully decorated. Lavish and spacious with seating for 3-4 guests. Per the usual- I went alone so I could sort my likes and dislikes out myself. (You may remember a visit I had to a previous retailer and the number of opinions I had coming at me.... oy. It was simply too much- especially when everyone is a critic and everyone has an opinion. As the bride- it's only your opinion that matters and you need to feel your very best the day you get married.)

Jocelyn told me that I could take photos of the dresses I was interested to help me in making up my mind. This is fabulous- especially since I confided in her that I had thought I had found a gown I loved but then when I saw the photo... it was an oh no! She also said that she understands that brides need to come back maybe three or four times before they make up their mind- since it is such an important purchase.

I plan on returning to Grace Bridal Boutique- this time with my camera. And hopefully the gowns look better in photos than they do in the mirror.

My favorite gowns at this shop were by Eugina (pictured) and Anne Barge (Unable to find photo).

The Rush's Sale I attended....

I went to the Rush's 50% off sale the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend. It was disappointing to say the least. I'm an average sized woman- according to survey's the average size of a woman is a 14 these days- and I tend to fall between a 12 and 14 currently.

Since it was a sample sale- all instock gowns 50% off the regular purchase price- not many of the in stock dresses were even close to fitting. Those gowns that were in my size- were the same old same old. Very traditional- which if that's what you like- this would have been great for you. For me though- not so much. There was also lots of a-symmetrical rouching- so if you like that style- again, you missed out.

While I was trying on gowns I could overhear the sales people saying "All but one person has bought a dress today". For me- this was not a point of persuasion. The "everyone else is doing it" persuasion point has not been most effective on me. I was turned off. I left, empty handed and was fine with that.

The other women there seemed to fit more into the gown sample sizes. I was told when I scheduled the appointment that they had dresses of all sizes available. This was somewhat deceitful I feel.

The sales girl helping me- Jennifer- was nice enough. However, I don't think I'll return. It's not because the sale wasn't as fruitful as I had hoped- but more because the viewing area was within your own dressing room and very dark. The selection of gowns was decent but not what I was looking for. Perhaps I would have felt differently about it if I was looking at the gowns based on order-ability and not restricted to size on the rack.

Perhaps.

Recption Possibilities....

After pouring over websites and my Twin Cities Bridal Association Book- I've narrowed down the reception options- now to get the fiance on board. (Too many options can be overwhelming for some to process- hence all the footwork)

Colonial Church- we are members here
Atlas Grill - Downtown Minneapolis - free valet parking, no cake cutting fees- they pride themselves on no hidden costs- and because they're awesome- you can use any of what they have on hand free of charge- no nickel and diming you for every knife, spook, fork, each plate or drinking goblet- awesome
Minnetonka Country Club- they have currently cut the cost of their receptions... I wonder if it's good for reservations made for future months or just this fall- the wording is kind of funny on their webpage.
Elsie's Restaurant, Bar and Bowling Alley- Northeast Minneapolis- There's no room rental charge and the food and drink minimum is only $2500. We'd have to cut our guest list a bit- basically limit the +1s- so it wouldn't be too terribly tragic.
Olympic Hills Country Club- Eden Prairie - it seats enough people- the food and drink minimum for the main dining room - which seats 230- is only $4500 and the rental is only $475. I can stomach those numbers. I may have to speak with them about their confetti restriction... kidding of course.

Review: Visit to Mary Kay Bridal in Richfield

Visiting Mary Kay Bridal was a great experience. I was greeted at the door, and directed to the area with wedding gowns. I was assisted by a young woman around my age. I was offered coffee, water, or cocoa while I looked at the dresses. The dress designers informal styles, and sale racks are clearly labeled so you know exactly what you're looking at. I was assisted in the dressing room- the help with getting on all the dresses was very helpful- all those layers of skirt can be overwhelming! Even though I had gotten there towards the end of the day and they were open for less than an hour by the time I was trying on the gowns- we were able to quickly eliminate what worked for me and my body type and what didn't. We went to the big mirror and viewing area only to see the gowns that I really liked. We agreed that it wasn't worth the time to hem and haw over gowns that I could try to justify liking. We traded general stories of how brides can try to justify liking a gown. I had seen it in my own bridal boutique experiences- many brides go through this- it looks so pretty on the hanger to them but then once its on... disappointment and the attempts to justify. I have to admit as a bride-to-be I went through this myself. Now, I've determined that if it's not it-it's not IT. It was great to work with someone who was on the same wave length as me with that. At the end of the visit, I found 3 really beautiful gowns that I loved. None of them were "well this might be a good dress"- they were all fabulous.

The gowns were:
Demetrios Style 4260
Jasmine Style T180R (no sleeves or ribbon bow)
Jasmine Style T189R (no sleeves)

When I left the fitting room, I was given a bag of wedding information- vendors, catalogues, a Minnepolis St Paul Weddings bridal magazine, information on the store- including current specials they offer.

The gowns Mary Kay carries are for the most part under $1500. Some of the Demetrios styles are more expensive than this - but they are fabulous- I promise.

I loved my visit to this store and how helpful they were. They understood that you might not be able to find THE dress on the first day out. They're also locally owned which is great. They were upfront about what the ordering process is- half down to place the order and the other half due within 30 days of the gown arriving. I was also told that I could make monthly payments if I wanted to in order to pay down the gown balance earlier and as I am able. WOW- fabulous! This makes a higher price tag seem a lot more manageable and justifiable. No pay in full only like at other shops (The Wedding Shoppe I know makes you pay in full at time of order).

Wedding gown designers carried by Mary Kay Bridal are:

Demetrios, Jasmine, Impression, Moonlight, and Alfred Angelo.

Where to Find: Bonny Bridal

Bonny Bridal is a very common bridal gown line popular to carry in many stores.

Glenrose Florals to Formals in Plymouth
Rush's Bridal in Minneapolis
The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul
Pearls and Lace in Burnsville
Napier Bridal and Formalwear in West St Paul
Angeliques in Blaine
North Country Bridal in Forest Lake
Weddings By Deb in Faribault
Aubony in Hutchinson
Bridal Boutique in St Cloud
Carrie Johnson Bridal in St Joseph
Mestad's in Rochester
The Silhouette in Easton
Belles and Beaus in Austin
Arlene's Bridal in Brainerd
Fiancee in Brainerd
Elegant Affair in Fairmont
Blossoms and Bridal in Montevideo
Jackie J's Bridal in Alexandria
Bridal Elegance in Cloquet
Princess Bride in Duluth
Jessica's Bridal in Grand Rapids
Formalities in Bemidji

Where to Find: Azura Bridal

Azura Bridal is a higher end designer (prices on the Wedding Shoppe's webpage range from $2313 to $4,375) Azura also has a veil collection.

In Minnesota, Azura is available only at The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul, MN

Where to Find: Mikaella

Mikaella is available at three retailers in Minnesota:

Mestad's in Rochester
Raffine in Stillwater
The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul

Shopping around... for a reception venue.

If you're a bride that's spent any time looking at reception hall information- specifically the minimum costs...it can be a bit overwhelming to think about spending $10,000 for the food and drink minimum for your reception. Wow- $10,000? I almost want to say "Can I work for you reception hall? I've been in and out of work- laid off 3 times since '06 and trying to put together an economical but still fabulous wedding is a bit daunting.

I've found a few options for our modest budget - Elsie's in NE Minneapolis for example- no room rental fee and a food and drink minimum of only $2,000. I still have to see the space- I've been to Elsie's- to bowl and for the bar. It's a fun place and would definitely make for a fun time- especially for those non-dancers out there. This is a definite stop on the reception spaces-to-review list.

I still think it would be easiest to have the reception at the church- the fewer things to worry about the better...and a lower price tag as well. That approval can't happen until May though so I'm doing as much research for what our contingency plan may/could/will be as possible.

New Bridal Boutique in Minneapolis!

A new Bridal Boutique is opening in Minneapolis in November 2009. How thrilling!

The name: POSH Bridal Couture

Where: Semple Mansion at 100 W Franklin Ave, Ste 200, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Open: By Appointment only- so call 612-599-5759 to schedule!

Designers they carry:
Janelle Berte
Alisa Benay
Kelly Chase Couture
Lila Couture
Posh Signature Line

I'm just giddy with excitement!

Where to Find: Alisa Benay

Beginning in November 2009- one Minnesota Retailer will carry Alisa Benay.

This is exciting because it's a new shop and Alisa Benay designs look great on her web page!

The lone Minnesota shop where you can find her designs is~
Posh Couture in Minneapolis

Where to Find: Mori Lee

Mori Lee is a more economical wedding dress line. Prices start at the low $200s and up to the mid $1000s.

These stores in Minnesota carry Mori Lee:

Specialty House Bridal- Alexandria

Angelique's Bridal - Blaine

Belles and Beaus - Austin

Bridal Details - Omaha (yes Omaha, MN)

Bridal Impressions - Marshall

Chapel of Love- Bloomington @ the Mall of America

Formalities - Bemidji

Fun and Fashion - Mankato

Glenrose Florals to Formals - Plymouth

Glitz - Bloomington

Heartstrings Bridal - Hopkins

Jenni's Bridal Boutique - Rochester

Krousey Country Wedding - Little Falls

Lorraine Shop - Mankato

Mestad's - St Cloud and Rochester

Monique's Bridal - Roseau

Mrs. B's Bridal - Owatonna

Princess Bride of Duluth - Duluth

Princess Bride of Hibbing - Hibbing

Rush's - Minneapolis

The Bridal Gallery - Mankato

The Prom Shop - Byron and Rochester

The Wedding Chapel Inc - Crystal

The Wedding Parlour - Grand Rapids

The Wedding Shoppe - St Paul

Weddings by Deb - Faribault

Weddings By Tess - Apple Valley

Weddings on First - Willmar

Mary Kay website

The Mary Kay Cosmetics web page has a great tool that gives you a makeover. It's not just a makeover though- you can add accessories to create your wedding day look! It's so much fun to play around with the colors, application techniques, hairstyles, colors, and accessories. It's so helpful to visualize your wedding day look!

Call to Bella Bridal in Woodbury

Yesterday, I was in Woodbury and I called Bella Bridal on a whim. I was in town for a job interview and thought- I can at least call, check the hours, see if I could walk in. I called at 4:45 or so and was told that there was basically no way to get in to try on gowns as they had a few appointments already. I was also told that they like to have 90 minutes set aside for each appointment and since they close at 6pm- that's really not enough time. Ok, fair enough. I was told I could come in and look around but there was no guarantee I could try anything on.

This is a great example of why you need to call before you go to a store. I thought - oh it's a Tuesday- they probably won't be busy. I was basically discouraged from coming in. They were polite about it- so that was nice. I didn't go because of the discouraging comments.

Where to Find: Moonlight

Moonlight is a moderately priced bridal gown line. It's one that the shop I worked at carried. They have some very lovely designs and I'm surprised more shops don't carry them in Minnesota.

The shops that do carry Moonlight (and the specific lines are in parenthesis) are:
Rush's Bridal- Minneapolis (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Enchanted Veils)
Fun and Fashion- Mankato (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Enchanted Veils, and Mariposa Q15)
The Wedding Shoppe- St Paul (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Celebrations)
Red Magic Bridal- Cloquet (Bridal)
Napier Bridal - West Saint Paul (Bridesmaids)
Mary Kay's Bridal- Richfield (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Enchanted Veils)
Elegant Affair- Fairmont (Prom)
Milton's Bridal- St Paul (Bridal, Tango, Enchanted Veils)
Xtreme Bridal- Medford (Tango, Bridesmaids)
Silver Rose Fashions- Cloquet (Bridesmaids, Mariposa Q15)
Bridal Loft- Virginia (Bridal, Tango)
The Bridal Boutique- St Cloud (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Celebrations, Enchanted Veils, Prom)
Bella Bridal Boutique- Woodbury (Bridal, Tango)
Alan Evans Bridal- Moorhead (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Enchanted Veils, Mariposa Q15)
Ronda Jean's Bridal- Brainerd (Bridal, Tango, Bridesmaids, Mariposa Q15)
The Loraine Shop- Mankato (Bridal, Tango)
Satin and Silk- Byron (Prom)

Where to Find: Peter Langner

Peter Langner is a high end wedding gown designer. His designs in Minnesota are exclusive to L'ATELIER COUTURE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

It never hurts to ask...or to shop around...

I received a follow up thank you e-mail after my visit to Dena Marie. I wrote back and asked if the Joli gown I tried on, in the size I would have ordered, could be purchased off the rack and whether or not a discount would be given. They responded, no the dress was too new to buy off the rack and no discount would be given. Dresses can only be purchased off the rack when brides are "in a pinch". OKAY, fair enough- but it never hurts to ask.

Knowing after I looked at the Jolie web page and posting which shops carry the line- I decided to check The Wedding Shoppe's web page. Here, I found the same gown for over $100 less than at Dena Marie. Interesting- I wonder what the tag in the store reads if they have it in stock...

Note to self- compare The Wedding Shoppe's online prices with the retail prices of their sample gowns.

Appointment scheduled at Rush's!

I was on the Rush's web page the other day and I noticed they are having one of their 50% off sales. Needless to say, I was thrilled at the prospect of finding an expensive gown for not-as-much.

The Rush's sale is a one day only event on November 29, 2011- the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend.

I called this afternoon and requested to try on gowns for this day. I had to hold and speak with a woman named Linda. Linda is in charge of the scheduling for this. If you're interested in going to this sale- here's the skinny:

1. Appointments are 45 minutes. Period.
2. The appointments fill up quickly because it's a one day event (that I've heard only happens once in a while)
3. You party size is limited to 4 people.
4. Dresses are current styles- not discontinued gowns- but purchasing at this sale is only for what is in-stock. Orders for gowns will not be taken at the 50% off price.
5. Most of the in stock dresses on sale are size 8 or 10 but they have sizes 6-16 available.
6. The sale includes 400-500 dresses.
7. No new gown designs for 2010 are included in the sale.
8. Once you set your appointment they ask for your name and address- you get a card that acts as your ticket in- don't leave home without it- just like your visa card.
9. If you need to cancel- call- but this is just common courtesy.

I've heard wonderful things about this sale on the online communities such as theknot.com- one bride found the gown she loved by Pronovias at this sale and would not have been able to afford it otherwise. Or maybe it was that she didn't want to pay full price.

FREE Meet Minneapolis Wedding Planner Assistance

Meet Minneapolis is the fun name for the Minneapolis Visitors and Convention Bureau. I find its cool to find out about new and different things to do in your own backyard by visiting this site and sites like it. What I noticed from doing the beginning stages of wedding planning- is they have a wedding planner on their staff. Having filled out the form, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect- would it be a barrage of harassing sales calls-
"Pick me!"

"NO! Pick me!"

"YOU WANT US!"

The thought made me cringe.

What happened instead was nice follow up e-mails with a lot of information that I could read at my leisure and add to my categorized spreadsheets while watching "The Amazing Race" online at cbs.com.

So far, this service has been great- saves time, saves money. I"m liking it.

Another great aspect of the Meet Minneapolis wedding planner - it's FREE. The catch is that you have to inform the wedding coordinator of how many rooms you booked and where. It helps keep the service free and the bride and groom are also entered in a Minneapolis weekend getaway. And for your out of town guests- you get 10 visitors magazines free- that is a $50 value according to the e-mail I received after I registered.

Where to Find: Jolie Bridal

Jolie Bridal is synonymous with simple elegance. They use terrific fabrics and single, statement details. I've found with their dresses that there are some retro elements that are included.

You can find Jolie Bridal in Minnesota at:

Bella Bridal in Woodbury
Dena Marie Bridal in Roseville
Jewel's Bridal Boutique in Delano
Little Bridal Shop in Rogers
The Wedding Parlour in Grand Rapids
The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul
Vowed in Elegance in Mankato
Wedding Connection in Forest Lake

I have done a price comparison of the above pictured dress between Dena Marie Bridal and The Wedding Shoppe. The Wedding Shoppe's online price is over $100 less than the Dena Marie price listed on the same dress in the store. Hmmm interesting.

Bridal Party- Aftermath Benies

So the Bridal Party came and went last month. It was fun, overwhelming, educational, and nice to get a lot of things out of the way. Again, meeting a lot of vendors at once was a huge time savor. I hope to attend more events such as this one- but may try the Twin Cities Bridal Show or The Affair instead.

I've noticed that some of the vendors offered discounts via e-mail from attending the Bridal Party. For Example:

10% off with Cocoa and Fig
15% off at Grace Bridal Boutique

Keep in mind, they know who attended the Bridal Party and will know if you're lying or not I'm sure. It's nice to know that they thought of something like that after wards. I'm definitely going to head to Grace Bridal Boutique now!

Review: Dena Marie Bridal

I visited Dena Marie Bridal on a whim yesterday- Sunday. Maybe it wasn't such a whim as it was the fiance was watching the football game and I could go try on gowns without worrying about having junior in tow. (I can't imagine that would be easy- especially alone!) I took our son with once before to try on gowns- but I had help with me- he was still crawling all over the place and being a baby- which is what he is.



Since I visited on a Sunday- I called before I arrived to make sure I could get an appointment to try on wedding dresses. Getting in wasn't a problem- the fall is notorious for being the start of the slow season in the wedding world. Since Dena Marie is one of the few stores open on Sundays- that was also helpful. I think that since the majority of bridal salons are not open on Sundays- it is probably an overlooked day for brides to consider visiting. I basically had the run of the store.



The ladies working at the shop were all very nice and welcoming- and best of all- not pushy. Since it was slow I didn't have to compete for a mirror or a fitting room. The number and variety of dresses was great. This shop will tell you who the designers are- they don't cut out the tags and they let you see the catalogs for the dresses. So for example, when I wanted to see what the back of a dress looked like when it fit properly, the lady helping me found the picture in the catalog/magazine.



I have to admit- going alone to try on dresses was a bit.... intimidating? strange? different? I think I was concerned about being the bride without an entourage. I found that the staff was completely willing to help me regardless of how many people were in my party. I had imagined myself the sad, lonely bride with no one to be there with her. Ultimately, I found it was easier to go it alone.

I tried on nearly 20 gowns I'm sure. Dena Marie also had some different looks that I hadn't seen so far in my gown search. The dresses are not kept in plastic bags so it is easy to see what exactly you're trying on before you commit to taking a dress to the fitting room. (This happens to be the way my previous store displayed their gowns as well- on hangers but sans the plastic bags. Yes, plastic bags have the advantage of maintaining a clean dress, however- the chemicals from the bags can deteriorate the quality of the fabric- so there is a down side to them.)

The woman who was assisting me was affirming of my own opinions without being over the top. This meaning, I never felt like she was saying things or telling me things because it was what I wanted to hear. She contributed her opinion in a fair and just way. While working with her- I should just say her name is Barb- she made suggestions based on the things I had tried and liked and in a few instances provided affirmation before I made it to the mirror. We were very in line with our thinking- which was great. It made the shopping experience fun- even alone. I forgot about being alone- and it also made me think about what my genuine opinion of the dresses were without other voices in my head.

In the end, I thanked Barb for being so nice to me- even though I was there alone- saying that she thinks it's easier. I would have to agree. ]

I look forward to returning to Dena Marie Bridal for a second look at what I've picked out so far.

After my visit- I received an e-mail the very same afternoon from Barb. It was a nice short note thanking me for visiting and offering to answer any questions about anything or vendor information and feedback if I need. I'm very grateful for this because there are SO MANY vendors out there to choose from! And as I mentioned in my initial posting- I'm fairly skeptical about the online opinions out there- how do you know if it's a legitimate client versus a competing store/ vendor?

Direct from my e-mail

Now through October 31, 2009 you can rent both a chair cover and sash for $1.50 each.

Heartstrings Bridal

1605 Mainstreet

Hopkins, MN 55343

952-932-9090

www.heartstringsbridal.com

Direct From My E-mail

Call The Wedding Chapel and make an appointment for Sunday, October 25, 2009. Here's the e-mail and why:

The Wedding Chapel Bridals

SUPER SUNDAY

October 25^th, 2009

Open 12 Noon until 9p.m.

7201 Bass Lake Rd

Crystal, MN 55428

(763)535-4228

Call NOW for your Appointment!

Open House Specials

There will be Drawings for Prizes!! You DON’T want to MISS OUT!!!!

We Look forward to seeing you there!!!

Below is the ticket you fill out and bring with you to your appointment anytime this week! The Drawing will be held Sunday Oct. 25^th , 2009:

Where to Find: Emerald Bridals

Emerald Bridals can be found in Minnesota at:

Jackie J's in Alexandria
Simple Elegance in Brainard
Bridal Elegance by K. Elizabeth in Cloquet
Sisters in New Ulm
Mestad's Wedding World in Rochester
Little Bridal Shop in Rogers
Monique's Bridal in Roseau
Dena Marie Bridal and Tux in Roseville
Mestad's in St Cloud
The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul
Touch of Class in Starbuck
Our Shop in Stillwater

What they Carry: Dena Marie Bridal

Dena Marie Bridal and Tux - This bridal salon carries a number of designers that I have not seen at other shops. The * means they are some of my personal favorite lines.

Wedding Gowns:
-Allure*
-Anjolique
-Casablanca*
-Emerald Bridal
-Joli*
-Jasmine
-Mia Solano
-Pattis
-Raylia
-Sienna Cole

Bridesmaids:
After Six
Alexia
B2
Belsoie
Bill Levkoff
Dessy
Jordan
Wtoo

Ordering online....

I'm not a huge Internet purchaser- but given the opportunity to get sample items for favors- I had to bite. Exclusively Weddings allows you to choose the box and ribbon colors you're interested in. Hopefully, in a few days I'll have my self-made "favor kit" that will allow me to mix and match the potential color schemes that we have narrowed down for the wedding and reception.

After I was done finalizing those selections- I moved on to the Get Married web page. I spotted a wedding planner that I was interested in. None of the planners I've found in the stores have been what I've wanted- so maybe this one will be it.

We'll see what happens and how it goes. I've heard not-so-great things about some wedding favors and things found online. Hopefully the samples will be fabulous and the planner just what I want.

Review: The MSP Mag Wedding Party on Sunday, September 20

I attended the Wedding Party yesterday-- stag-- at the Metropolitan ballroom. It was interesting to go alone because I got to see how vendors treated someone who went alone rather than bringing their entire wedding party. Sometimes I was ignored, sometimes I got very personalized attention. Overall, I think it was good to go alone. I didn't have to worry about anyone else getting too tired, bored, hungry, or put off.

It was a decent get together with a variety of vendors that you could meet with and get a feel for their personalities, find out pricing, time frames, and other information.

Surdyk's was there and provided champagne and cheese samples. I'm not a champagne fan as it is- but I sampled a really fabulous german blue cheese that was very creamy and not too tart.

with three different flavors. Buttercream is a personal favorite of mine that I have used for events in the past and plan to use again in the future (i.e. my own wedding).

Cocoa and Fig, a newer cake and dessert bar vendor, handed out mini cupcakes. The cake left something to be desired. I over heard one woman comment "It's not any better than box cake..." This was overheard before I sampled the Cocoa and Fig offerings for myself. I don't know what box cake she's been eating, but this was worse than my box cake experiences. I will say, Cocoa and Fig does nice dessert buffet table designs/ catering. We were only able to sample the one chocolate cake item they brought. The dessert buffet was just for show. Overall, I was less than impressed.

Anderson Photography was very warm and welcoming. I didn't feel like I was being SOLD. They are a husband and wife team and seem like good people. They even provided a cd of examples of their work that I plan on reviewing.


There was a fabulous caterer at the party-- and they're actually called "Fabulous Catering". One of my favorites at the party was:

Humboldt Fog Fondant Cheese Canapes with Honeycrisp Apples
With Ames Farm Honey & Lavendar Flowers

Delicious!

I was less amused by their other sample that I was able to try:

A pulled pork option that I did not find under the "Current Menu offerings" section and...

Roasted Butternut Squash and Amish Bleu Cheese
in Filo with Sage and Maple - Glazed Walnuts


The major benefits of going to The MSP Wedding Party are:
- some vendors offer discounts, coupons, or lock in pricing when you meet them at shows like this one
- meeting with a number of vendors at one time- it's a time saver/ one-stop-shop that can really help you find the right vendor for, say, photography or flowers- as an example.
- opportunities to win prizes

Where to Find: Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta is in the upper eschelon of wedding gown designers.

Oscar de la Renta's bridal designs are available, in Minnesota, exclusively at A'telier Couture Bridal Boutique in St Paul.

Nordstrom carries non-bridal items designed by Oscar de la Renta.

Where to Find: Niki Livas

Niki Livas designs are great for a destination or informal ceremony. Classic with a hint of trendy dresses with little to no train are typical of the The White Collection. Short length dresses are also available.

Two boutiques in Minnesota carry Niki's designs:
Satin and Silk in Byron
Bridal Boutique in Winona

Department stores also carry Niki dresses:
Von Maur
Macy's
Carsons
Bonton
Deb

Niki also designs evening and prom dresses- so if you are specifically looking for the White Collection I advice calling ahead prior to visiting a store!

Where to Find: Monique Lhullier

Monique Lhullier opened her first salon in the mid 1990s and has since become one of the most popular high end designers.

Monique Lhullier has a signature salon in Edina at the 50th and France shopping district.

Where to Find: Melissa Sweet

Melissa Sweet is classic and a little whimsical.

Priscilla of Boston is a signature salon for Melissa Sweet designs.

Other locations include:
Flutter Boutique in Minneapolis
Raffine in Stillwater

Where to Find: Lela Rose

Lela Rose is based in New York.

The premier retailer for Lela Rose in Minnesota is in St Paul:
L'Atelier Couture Bridal Boutique

Where to Find: Lazaro

Lazaro is a division of the Jim Hjelm company.

There is a trunk shows coming up for Fall 2009:
November 20 at Macy's- Minneapolis.

There are two boutiques in Minnesota that carry Lazaro:
Macy's in downtown Minneapolis
Raffine in Stillwater

Where to Find: Layne Corban

Layne Corban is a small wedding designer who is based out of Maryland and after referencing her website- appears to be just getting started.

While doing a search for this designer I found three different sites- a new flash site, the old plain jane site and an events blog.

Where to Find: Kristie Kelly for Disney Fairy Tale Weddings

Kristie Kelly designs specifically for the Disney Line.

In Minnesota you can find the Kristie Kelly gowns at:
Bella Bridal Boutique in Woodbury.

I have to admit- I am surprised that there is not a Disney only store or available at theme parks only clause.

Where to Find: Kenneth Pool

Kenneth Pool is a part of the Amsale company. One of its more well known designers is Austin Scarlett of Project Runway, season one, fame.

For those of you who like the Real Housewives of Orange County- Lauri of season one, two, and three, wore one of Kenneth Pool's designs for her wedding to George.

Kenneth Pool also had a design featured on "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway" on the Style Network.

No stores carry Kenneth Pool designs. Bummer.

Maybe it's just me- but I love the idea of traveling to California or New York to find my dream dress.

For those of you who serious consider this travel:

New York- Kenneth Pool is available at:
Kleinfeld
Amsale flagship store
House of Botticelli in Bronxville

(when no city is listed they are in Manhattan)

California- Kenneth Pool is available at:
Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills
The Unique Bride in Burlingame
Marina Morrison in San Fransisco
R-Mine Bridal in Studio City
Chez Bride Moderne in La Jolla
The White Dress in Newport Beach

A little Closer in Chicago- Kenneth Pool is available at:
Ultimate Bride

Where to Find: Junko Yoshioka

Junko Yoshioka is a New York based designer. She was born in Japan and has two sisters. In design school in Japan, she won the "Best Wedding Gown" design, a prestigious honor and continued on that track. Junko has dressed celebrities including: Jessica Alba, Katherine Heigl, Anna Joaquin, Helen Hunt, Jaime Preissly, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Aisha Tyler, Ali Landry, and Claire Forlani. Her dresses have been worn at the Oscar's, Grammy's, Emmy's, and Tony's.

No Stores in MN carry Junko Yoshioka's designs.

In New York you can visit Saks Fifth Avenue and Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier.

Where to Find: Alfred Sung

Alfred Sung gowns are classic yet modern, simple but elegant, and have a bit of glamor with all the sparkle in the bead work.

Three stores in Minnesota carry the Alfred Sung line.

Jackie J. Bridal in Alexandria
Rush's in Minneapolis
Raffine in Stillwater

Trunk shows are also listed on the webpage and as of this posting date- none are scheduled in Minnesota for 2009 or 2010.

Where to Find: Aire Barcelona

Aire Barcelona is a European boutique line that is sophisticated and whimsical all at once. I came to this conclusion because of the soft flowing fabrics they use- including Organza and Garza.

No stores currently carry this line in Minnesota.

In North Dakota:
The Bridal Shop

In New York:
Artemida Wedding Gallery in Brooklyn
Sposa Bella Couture in Brooklyn
The Wedding Plaza in Floral Park (Northeast)
Moonlight Couture Bridal Salon in Merrick (Northeast)
Wedding Atelier in New York City
Designer Loft in New York City
Peggy's Bridal and Mr Tuxedo in Rochester (Northeast)


In South Dakota:
Interlude Bridal Shoppe in Sioux Falls

Where to Find: 2 Be Bride

2 Be Bride is exclusively available at: The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul.

2 Be Bride is a consortium of designers who have a combined 140+ designs to choose from. The designers lines include:
Isabella Chessari (princess)
Elizabeth Darcy (romantic)
Gavin Michaels (contemporary)

Review: David's Bridal- as a bridesmaid

A friend of mine decided on Bridesmaids dresses from David's. I will wear what the bride asks. When I went to pick up my dress a few weeks ago, I went ahead and tried it on- it still fits- at least right now. I explained to the sales associate that the baby weight is finally coming off and inquired about exchanging the dress in the future. She said it would be no problem- I would just have to bring the dress in and allow 6 weeks to order the new size.

This is the nice thing about David's Bridal.

Where to Find: Farah Angsana

Farah Angsana designs couture evening, resort, and bridal collections. The line is based in Zurich, Switzerland and Farah made her fashion debut in London in 1999.

Today, I received an email from a representative of Farah Angsana. While there are no retailers in Minnesota- you'll have to venture to either Kleinfeld's in Manhattan or Renee Strauss in Beverly Hills to see the dresses.

The next showing of this line is during New York Bridal Week on October 19, 2009 and will be announced on their web page in the next few days.

Free Bridal Party?!

I was just on Brides.com and I saw that MSP magazine is having a bridal party in September. Brides can get their complimentary ticket ($15 value). by ordering my complimentary ticket I also was entered to win $500 in flowers!

Inspiration

For my May wedding- here are the things that I am inspired by:

The long wait or How we got to here

My Fiance and I have a child together and he's nearly a year old. My parents wanted us to get married "right away". I think the whole shot gun wedding is antiquated. When they told me they went to a "Shot gun wedding" a year or two ago- I wasn't even sure what they were talking about.

We have set our wedding date for May 2011. Done. My Fiance will be done with his Physical Therapy program for one thing. Another thing that I considered was that I was laid off in June 2008 when I was 6 months pregnant. Try finding a job under those conditions! It's not an easy situation.

I have felt, and continue to feel, that we made the right choice in not wanting to do the Shotgun wedding. My parents talked of "providing a scholarship to the courthouse" so we'd at least be married by the time the baby was born...

PUKE.

We both knew that we wanted one wedding and one marraige.

While I was pregnant, and after I was laid off from my job, I became depressed. This is not something I have shared widely with people because when you're pregnant people ask you if you're excited. They ask you if you're happy. They ask you all of these questions that one would think would warrant a positive answer- and typically it does.

I was petrified. I was so petrified in fact, that I looked for books on depression during pregnancy- not after. They were hard to find. Finally, through my local library- I found "A Deeper Shade of Blue". I didn't know how to bring my emotional wellness up to my doctor- so I brought the book with me. She immediately understood and I collapsed into tears. (Tears coming from someone who considered herself mentally tough for a long long time. Also, I'd been told that I may never be able to have kids because my body was already deregulating itself as if I were going through menopause- as early as high school.)

It took a long time after the baby was born to feel back to my same old self again. Things were pretty rocky in our relationship over those last months of pregnancy and while my Fiance was taking Anatomy and Physiology. Not to mention, people were losing their jobs left and right at that time, I had an emergency C-section and couldn't drive anywhere for two months, or pick up anything but our baby.

At the end of the pregnancy my now-fiance and I had a huge fight and I nearly moved into my parents or in with friends. He was paying zero attention to me because of work and school, that summer he had softball league too. I felt very insecure, I felt very conspicuous- as if everyone could see that I was an unwed mother- that things didn't happen in the "perfect order". Just thinking about that time makes me want to cry. OK confession: I am crying. That's probably why my thoughts are a bit scattered.

It took a long time to feel good about myself and about my relationship with my now-fiance.

For Mothers Day 2009, my fiance took me out to a really nice restaurant. Friends of ours watched our baby. He proposed at dinner and I was so happy. I mean really really happy.
I would compare it to the Will Smith movie- "In Pursuit of Happiness".
I'll get to my point, I swear.

Here's the thing- if we hadn't had those struggles and we hadn't succeeded then we wouldn't be as strong as we are today. If we had gone ahead and done the Courthouse or Shotgun wedding- I wouldn't have had anything to look forward to and nothing to hope for. I would have felt that it had been done because he was obligated to marry me- not because he loved me through thick and thin, or inspite of If we had done what others wanted us to do- we would probably be miserable, unhappy, and fighting- just like that day when I was 9 months pregnant and bawling uncontrollably in our front entry.

My parents want us to move up our wedding a year from 2011 to 2010- and I say no. I say no because when I do things the way that my parents want- I usually get screwed over. At least that has been the track record.

I had a nightmare about our wedding day. That we said our "I Do's" and our pastor got to "You may now kiss the bride" and instead of kissing he walked off and out of the church. My mother did the same shortly after- leaving me to deal with guests and food and not knowing what to do. I take that nightmare as a warning that I would be left to pay for everything myself. So, the warning has been heeded and I will have a 2 year engagement because no one will promise me something and not follow through. Not again.

This was originally posted on 8/16/09 but has been updated.

Where to Find: Jenny Packham

Jenny Packham is a London-based designer. She has a London boutique. I have emailed their customer contact line (8/14/09) and am currently awaiting a reply to see if any MN retailers carry her dresses.

Today (8/17/09), I received an email from Jenny Packham! There are no stores in Minnesota that carry her line- but here are the two closest:
Gigi of Mequon in Maquon, WI
Ultimate Bride in Chicago, IL

Where to Find: Impression Bridal

Impression Bridal is one of my personal favorites. I tried on the gown pictured at The Wedding Chapel during the "sample sale" they were having. I know it was this dress because of the rouching on the bodice and the balloon hem. The wedding gowns by Impression are fairly affordable as well ( not over $1000) at least from what I have seen.

There are 30 locations in Minnesota that carry this companies designs which include Bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses, evening wear, Prom (known as Xcite) Informal gowns, and Mother of the Bride collections.

Wedding Gowns, Informal, Bridesmaids, and La Perla Collections:
VIP Bridal in Brainerd
Glenrose Florals to Formals in Plymouth
Mary Kay's Bridal in Richfield
The White Rose Bridal and Formal in St Charles

Wedding Gowns, Bridesmaids, and Prom Collection:
Two Hearts Bridal in Bemidji

Wedding Gowns, Bridesmaids, and La Perla Collections:
Jessica's Bridal in Grand Rapids

Wedding Gowns, Informal, and La Perla Collections:
Weddings on First in Willmar

Wedding Gowns and Bridesmaids Collections:
The Wedding Chapel in Crystal
Fun and Fashion in Mankato
Rush's in Minneapolis

Informal Collection only:
Now and Forever Wedding Gallery in Wadena

Bridesmaids only:
Courtly Manor in Albert Lea
Belles and Beaus in Austin
Angelique's Bridal in Blaine
Pearls and Lace Bridal in Burnsville
Amoree in Detroit Lakes
Reminisce in Duluth
Elegant Affair in Fairmont
The Wedding Connection in Forest Lake
The Hope Chest in Ham Lake
Sew Special Bridal in Jordan
Lorraine Shop in Mankato
Alan Evan's Bridal in Moorhead
The Bridal Loft in Mountain Iron
Cynthia Bridal in Rush City
Specialty House in Sauk Rapids
Bridal Expression by Dorothy in Shakopee
The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul
Our Shop in Stillwater
Raffine Bridal Boutique in Stillwater

Where to Find: Camille La Vie (Group USA)

Camille La Vie is also known as Group USA and Camille La Vie. The designs are special to their website where you can order online and their stores around the country. Currently, no Camille La Vie stores exist in Minnesota.

Where to Find: Love by Enzoani

Love by Enzoani is the bridesmaid and evening wear line.

Love can be found in Minnesota at:

Che Bella in St Paul

Alan Evan's Bridal in Moorhead

Rush's Bridal in Minneapolis

Bella Bridal Boutique in Woodbury

Where to Find: Enzoani

Enzoani first entered the bridal gown design world in 2005.

Two stores in Minnesota carry the Enzoani line:

Rush's Bridal in Minneapolis
Alan Evan's Bridal in Moorhead

Where to Find: Eme di Eme

Eme di Eme is a division of Aimee A'telier- who currently has no representation in Minnesota

Where to Find: Elie Saab for Pronovias

Elie Saab for Pronovias is a very high end designer who's gowns range from $3,000 to $15,000.

No Stores in Minnesota carry this particular line of Pronovias.

Where to Find: Eden Bridals

Eden Bridals has three lines: Bridals, Selects, and Classics.

Bridal Boutique in Winona

Blossoms and Bridal in Montevideo

Jessica's Bridal and Formal wear in Grand Rapids

The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul

Mrs. B's Bridal and Sewing in Owatonna

Jenni's Bridal Boutique in Rochester

Rebekah's Bridal and Formal Wear in Elk River

Pearls and Lace Bridal in Burnsville

Princess Bride in Duluth

Little Bridal Shop in Rogers

Specialty House of Bridal and Flowers in Sauk Rapids

Sew Perfect Bridal in Fergus Falls

Weddings by Tess in Apple Valley

Hope Chest in Ham Lake

Milton's Bridal in St Paul

Barb's Bridal and Formal Wear in Hastings

Where to Find: Mon Cheri, Sophia Tolli, Cameron Blake, Tony Bowls, and Others

Mon Cheri is a label that encompasses a number of designers.

Courtly Manor in Albert Lea
La Gala by Tony Bowls

Jackie J's Bridal in Alexandria

Mon Cheri Bridals, Montage, Cameron Blake, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Belles and Beaus in Austin

Montage, Cameron Blake, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Formalities in Bemidji

Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Sophia Tolli Bridal

The Hope Chest in Ham Lake

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Destinations, Montage, Montage Boutique, Social Occasions by Mon Cheri, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Glitz in Bloomington at the Mall of America

Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings

Pearls and Lace Bridal in Burnsville

Mon Cheri Bridals, Montage, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Silver Rose Fashions in Cloquet

Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings, Tony Bowls Collection

Amoree in Detroit Lakes

Cameron Blake, Le Gala by Tony Bowls

Princess Bride in Duluth

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Destinations, Montage

The Sandpiper in Duluth

Cameron Blake, Le Gala by Tony Bowls

The Silhouette in Easton

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Montage, Cameron Blake, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Bessie's Boutique in Eden Prairie

Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings, Tony Bowls Collection

Brides of France in Edina

Destinations, Montage, Le Gala by Tony Bowls

Elegant Affair in Fairmont

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Sophia Tolli Bridal

North Country Bridal in Forest Lake

Mon Cheri Bridals, Destinations, Montage, Montage Boutique, Social Occasions by Mon Cheri, Cameron Blake, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Jessica's Bridal in Grand Rapids

Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings

The Wedding Parlour in Grand Rapids
Sophia Tolli Bridal

Heartstrings Bridal in Hopkins

Mon Cheri Bridals, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Aubony in Hutchinson

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Cameron Blake, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Rush's Bridal in Minneapolis

Mon Cheri Bridals, Montage

Pageant Shop by Michaels in New Brighton

Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings, Tony Bowls Collection

Sister's Bridal and Tux in New Ulm

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings

Glenrose Florals to Formals in Plymouth

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Destinations, Montage, Cameron Blake

Mary Kay's Bridal in Richfield

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Montage, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Jenni's Bridal Boutique in Rochester

Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Paris by Tony Bowls, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Mestad's Formalwear in Rochester
Montage

The Prom Shop in Rochester

Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings

Monique's Bridal in Roseau
Paris by Tony Bowls

Mestad's in St Cloud

Mon Cheri Bridals, Le Gala by Tony Bowls

Milton's Bridal in St Paul
Mon Cheri Bridals

The Wedding Shoppe in St Paul

Mon Cheri Bridals, Mon Cheri Flower Girls, Destinations, Montage, Montage Boutique, Social Occasions by Mon Cheri, Rina di Montella Bridal, James Clifford Collection, 2be Bride, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Rina di Montella Evening Wear, JCH Collection, Sophia Tolli Bridal, James Clifford Black Label

Our Shop in Stillwater

Cameron Blake, Le Gala by Tony Bowls, Paris by Tony Bowls, Tony Bowls Evenings, Tony Bowls Collection, James Clifford Black Label

DC Bridal Boutique in Waconia
Cameron Blake

Carrie Johnson Bridal in Waite Park
Sophia Tolli Bridal

Bella Bridal in Woodbury

Mon Cheri Bridals, Destinations, Montage, Sophia Tolli Bridal

Sonnie's in Woodbury

Montage, Montage Boutique, Rina di Montella Evening Wear