Sleek Up-do Wedding Hair

February 1st, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

We all know that brides are most concerned with how they are going to look on their wedding day.  You want to feel the most beautiful on your wedding day since all eyes will be on you.  One of the most important things (besides the wedding gown) is how to fix your hair!  The hair completes the look and as a bride you want it to look fabulous.  A trend for 2012 bridal hair is a sleek and stylish up-do.  Brides have had sleek up do’s for years but for 2012 an up do has taken on a new twist!

Here are some of my favorite sleek up-dos!

The low bun has always been a hit with brides. This year is no exception but for 2012 these buns create a little more interest with volume, large curls and hair accessories.

I love the 1940′s vintage style and this up-do is a new take on an old classic hairstyle!

This up-do has a 1940′s feel however it uses a very loose braid to create this up-do.  Beautiful!

Tyra’s style has a peek-a-boo bang with a low bun. So elegant!

This up do has a more traditional front but the back view has a different take on a french twist!

If you want a more traditional look, the hair below might be perfect for you!  These styles blend traditional with a modern edge.

If you were looking for a sleek and stunning updo I hope this helped in your search!

Happy Planning!

Sources:  www.haircolorhairstyles2012.com, www.hairstyles-haircuts.com, www.fashiontrendseeker.com, www.hairstylesforall.com, www.chicweddinghairstyles.com, www.wedding-index.com, www.fashiontrends2012.com, www.wedding-grownhair.com

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Nontraditional Wedding Cake Toppers

January 31st, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Cake Toppers are back in a big way and I have to say I am pretty excited!  The tradition of cake toppers started in the 50’s and was a way to symbolize togetherness. Over the last ten years cake toppers have taken a back seat to using fresh flowers to top the wedding cake.  Although I still like using fresh flowers as a topper, it does make the wedding cake a little more memorable when you use a topper that is unique to you. Plus, I like anything that can be kept as a keepsake from your wedding day.

Traditional cake toppers are of a bride and groom standing together dressed in formal attire but today you can find all kinds of nontraditional toppers.  These toppers can represent a couple’s personality, interests or hobbies. Below are some of my favorite nontraditional cake topper ideas.

One of the newest trends in wedding cake toppers are made from wood.  These wooden figures can be customized by changing the color of the hair, wedding attire and even adding elements to compliment your wedding theme.  Check out the beach themed topper!

I love the glasses and the birdcage veil added to match the couple.

If you are concerned with budget, check out these customizable wedding toppers that are only $38.00! They are hand painted and just adorable!

I love these rockin’ figures below…don’t miss the facial hair!! Too cute!

One of my favorites are the superhero inspired figurines. Batman has saved the day!

And if you don’t want the traditional bride and groom topping the cake you can always use your initials to make a statement!

Who can resist a pair of lovebirds?

Like I mentioned earlier, these nontraditional toppers may not be for everyone.  If you like this idea but unsure if it is “you” , you can always find a topper that fits your personality and use it as a topper for the grooms cake!

What do you think about these nontraditional cake toppers?  We would love to know!

Sources: www.charmorigin.com, www.aweddingcakeblog.com, www.intimateweddings.com, www.thebrokeassbride.com, www.austinweddingblog.com, www.poptasticbride.com

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New! Paper Flower Bouquets

January 30th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

At Glendalough Manor, we are always on the lookout for new and unique ideas for our brides.  When I came across the idea of having a paper bouquet I thought it was such a unique and interesting idea I had to share!  At first glance, I honestly could not tell many of the bouquets were made from paper.  It is amazing to think that most of these bouquets are made from tissue paper, crepe paper and card stock!

  If you are a very crafty bride, this can be a DIY project and save lots of money! There are many website tutorials to teach you the step by step way to make one of these floral bouquets yourself.

You can even use music sheets to create a bouquet!

If you are not so crafty like me, you will have to stick to getting the professionals to make one!  Don’t be fooled by the word “paper” and think they will definitely be cheaper than using real flowers in your bouquet.  Most of these bouquets are handmade and take a lot of time to create; especially if you want something custom made (i.e. color, type of flower, etc.)

I found lots of paper bouquets on different Etsy shops that will make your bouquet and customize it for you for a variety of prices ranging from $35-$250.

How cool is this origami flower bouquet?

Although these bouquets are the same price or possibly more expensive, there are many reasons to choose a paper bouquet over a floral bouquet.  With a paper bouquet you don’t have to worry about whether the flowers you want are in season.  Since they are not real flowers you also don’t have to worry about making sure the flowers hold up all day for pictures.  And I think the best part about the paper flowers it can be easily kept as a keepsake for years to come.

We would love to hear your thoughts on paper flower bouquets!

Sources: www.glendaloughmanor.com, www.100layercake.com, www.etsy.com, www.bhldn.com

No Comments / Tags: , , , , , / Posted in Ceremony Style, Get Inspired

Unique Aisle Runners

January 25th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

If you want to decorate your ceremony aisle but you are tired of the traditional white aisle runner, then I have a few unique ideas that may be perfect for you!

A great DIY idea is to use wallpaper as your ceremony runner!  Choose your favorite wallpaper and glue it to some foam board for a great inexpensive runner.  You can even use this same wallpaper throughout your wedding (for example you can use it as a backdrop behind your escort card table).

Most girls have used roses down their ceremony aisle but coming up with a unique pattern to lay the roses is now the modern way of dressing up your  aisle. Make sure to have the guests enter by going around the chairs and not down the aisle so they don’t mess up all your hard work!

Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine just featured laying the petals down in an ombre pattern where the roses go from the lightest shade to darkest.  So beautiful!  Especially, if you are having a monochromatic wedding color scheme.

If you want to be very unique use confetti, crystals, or feathers to sprinkle down the aisle!

One of my favorite DIY projects is to make a chalkboard aisle runner!  Take some brown parchment paper glued to foambaord and paint with chalkboard paint.  Then you can write something special on the aisle runner…maybe a letter thanking all your friends and family for coming and sharing your special day, or a love note to each other written by each of you!

Let us know your thoughts on these unique aisle runner!

Happy Planning!

Sources:www.eventsbysarahelizabeth.com, www.groomsoldseperately.com, www.inbloomeventdesign.com, www.simplylovestudio.com

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Cupcake Wedding Cakes

January 24th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Over the last few weeks I have had several brides tell me they want a cupcake wedding cake!

Believe it or not cupcake wedding cakes have been around since the mid-90’s. Over the past few years these cakes have gained increased popularity with brides.  There are many reasons brides are choosing cupcake cakes and one of the biggest reasons is price.  If you are a DIY bride, cupcake cakes can be a great way to save money especially if you choose plain iced cupcakes and decorate them yourself. You can use all sorts of edible flowers and candies to decorate the cupcakes. You can save even more money if you pick them up from the bakery yourself and display them on the day of the wedding!

Using colored ribbon on the edge of the cupcake stand is a great way to add a pop of color!

Brides be warned…depending on the amount of detail of the cupcakes you choose they can end up being very pricey. If you want something a little more intricate on each cupcake it can be more expensive than a traditional wedding cake due to the amount of work involved.

Check out this idea of having a colored wedding cake topper!  The use of color is very elegant!

Another reason you may choose a cupcake cake is that they can be very unique and different.  My favorite look of cupcake cakes is to have an anniversary tier topper to cut in to on the wedding day.  That way you are mixing the traditional wedding cake topper with a more modern feel by using cupcakes for the other “tiers”.

Would you have a cupcake wedding cake?  We would love to hear your thoughts on this growing trend!

Sources: www.weddingwindow.com, www.mixedblessingbakery.com, www.kitchenmusings.com, www.mvislandweddings.com, www.gonnagetwed.com

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Makeup Trends for 2012

January 23rd, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Choosing your wedding makeup is a big decision that is sometimes overlooked. With all the time you spend on choosing the dress, hair, shoes and accessories you don’t want to forget about one of the biggest accessories; your makeup.

Whether you decide to have a friend do your makeup or hire a professional makeup artist make sure to have a “trial run” to test out different looks.  I would suggest taking pictures of the makeup looks and then deciding which look you like best. Chances are if it looks good in your photographs it will look fantastic with professional photography.

Below are some of the hottest looks for 2012!

Bold Lips:

A beautiful red lip is timeless! Just make sure to pair it with a nude lid and cheek and don’t forget the black liner and lashes!

Red lipstick is tricky so I would go to your local makeup counter you can try on different lipsticks to find the perfect shade.  Most makeup counters with a small purchase will even give you a mini makeover.  What better way to try on a different look without having to purchase everything?

Smoky Eye:

To me, the smoky eye will always be a trend I love.  Of course gray shadows in various shades and black liner can create this look.  If you decide on a smoky eye choose a more neutral shade of lipstick so you don’t look overdone.

Kim Kardashian always does a really beautiful and dramatic smoky eye.  It may be too much for every day but is a great look for a wedding!

 Don’t be afraid of using color to create a smoky eye! And don’t forget the false eye lashes!

Flawless and Natural:

If you normally don’t wear a lot of makeup, I wouldn’t choose a look that you will not be comfortable with.  Even though you want a more natural look you can still find makeup that will highlight your features.

Just because you want a more natural look it doesn’t mean you have to wear brown eyeshadow. How gorgeous is this green shadow?

Berry, Berry Gorgeous:

Berry shades look great on most skin tones and give you a very romantic look. Pair it with a soft berry or peach lip and cheek to finish the look.

Which look do you like best?

Sources: www.normausa.com, www.thefrazzledbride.com, www.weddingsalon.com, www.wowglowingbride.com, www.fashionlatest.net, www.weddingobsession.com, www.vailmeetings.com, www.healthinformationworld.com

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Delicious Dessert Stations

January 18th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Everyone expects to eat cake at a wedding but there is a new trend brides are going gaga over…dessert stations!!  The more choices you can give your guests the better! Dessert Stations are a fun way to treat your guests and they look great too! It’s not as easy as it looks putting a great dessert station or bar together but with a little creativity you can come up with some beautiful looking and great tasting desserts to add to your dessert station.

Here are a few of my favorite dessert station ideas! Enjoy!

Right now I am in love with the Smore’s station!! Adults will feel like a kid again roasting their own marshmallows and making smore’s!

If you are getting married in the summer what better way than to have a ice cream station stocked with all the toppings for your guests?

Or a fun twist on an ice cream station is a ice cream sandwich station stocked with crushed Oreo cookies or Reese’s.

Who doesn’t love cakes, cake pops and an assortment of pastries? I think it’s a great idea to use vintage glass dessert stands to display them?

Or offer your guests a variety of homemade cookies….just don’t forget the cold milk!

How cute is offering a milk station with white, chocolate and strawberry milk?  Too cute!

What do you think about these dessert stations?  We would love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Planning!

Sources: www.glendaloughmanor.com, www.weddingwindow.com, www.100layercake.com, www.floridianweddings.com, www.thebridalsolutionllc.com

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Fun Food Stations!

January 17th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Who isn’t tired of eating the same baked chicken, green beans and mashed potatoes at every wedding? I know I am!!  I recently attended a wedding reception where the bride offered themed food stations for dinner.  I have to say it was one of the most fun and interesting wedding dinners I had ever had that I couldn’t help but share some of these ideas with you!

You may not like the idea of only offering food stations at your wedding but I think even if you decide on a buffet dinner you can always add one or two of these stations to your menu to make it a little more interesting. Or some of these stations would work great as a late night snack after a long night of dancing!

One station that would be a great addition to any buffet menu is the Mashed Potatoes Station!   Guests are offered whipped mashed potatoes with an assortment of toppings to choose from including cheese, broccoli, gravy, bacon and much more.  The best part is they are served in these martini glasses which look so yummy once prepared!

A new station I love is a burger and fry station!  How cute are these mini sliders?  Guests can choose if they want a beef or veggie patty and add their own condiments including choice of cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato.  Add some hot dogs by this slider station and some fries and onion rings you have an all-American themed station that guests won’t be able to get enough of!

If you are having a more casual wedding, I like the idea of a grilled cheese or panini station.  Serve with some tomato soup and you have yummy meal all at one station. Grilled cheese sandwiches and panini’s are also great for a late night snack!

If you want an Italian themed station you can choose to have a chef attended pasta station where guests can choose the type of pasta, sauce and toppings and it is cooked in front of them.  Or you can have an assortment of pizzas! Yum!

And to wash it all down you can have a fun themed drink station!

Make sure to check out tomorrow’s blog on delicious dessert stations!! Trust me they will make your mouth water!

Sources: www.glendaloughmanor.com, www.elizabethannedesigns.com, www.finishingtoucheventdesign.com, www.rawphotodesign.com

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Creative Ways to Decorate Your Ceremony Altar

January 16th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

Your dream may be to get married outside in a beautiful field or maybe in a spacious garden but it takes something a little extra to dress up your ceremony area if you are getting married outside.  If you don’t have a structure or “altar” where you want to stand for the ceremony you will probably need something to stand beside or under to frame you and your groom during the ceremony.  There are some creative things you can do to make your ceremony altar stand out and I wanted to share some of my favorite and simple ways to transform your ceremony space.

Chandeliers are a great way to dress up a ceremony area.  Especially, if you are getting married where there are beautiful large trees you can hang them from.  Even one large chandelier can totally transform your ceremony area in to an elegant altar to be married beneath.

One of my favorite ideas is to use things in a home to dress up the outside ceremony.  I love the antique doors below that guests can walk through before the ceremony begins!

A DIY idea is to use paper flowers and to build a colorful altar.  You can even use strips of fabric that can be draped and hung to surround the bride and groom.

Stringing lights and lanterns make a beautiful statement especially when they extend over the guests.  Check out the streamers below…who knew they could look so chic and elegant?

And how elegant is using pomander balls hung from long strands of ribbon from a tree. Along with the lights it is purely stunning!

Whatever your style and personality I hope these ideas helped spark your creativity on how to decorate your own ceremony!

Happy Planning!

Image Sources: www.glendaloughmanor.com, www.style-by-design.com, www.weddingdecoration-ideas-info.com, www.thebridesuite.com, www.libbyjamesblog.com, www.aldasmagnoliahill.com

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Unique Boutonnieres!

January 11th, 2012 by Glendalough Manor

We all know that most of the wedding is focused on the bride.  Why not treat your groom to something special?  I think a fun way to make your groom feel special on your wedding day is to surprise him with a unique boutonniere made just for him!  Below are some of my favorite boutonniere ideas. 

I love the idea of using a hobby or something he enjoys doing to incorporate in to their boutonniere.  It can even be somewhere he loves visting or where he had his bachelor party, like the Vegas style boutonnieres below!

If your fiance has lost someone close to him, a great way to honor their memory is for him to wear a timepiece with their picture in it.  Love!

If your man is a beer connoisseur, how cute is this boutonniere made from real wheat with a bottle cap from his favorite brewing company?

 And if you want to have lots of fun with this, you can always use his favorite animated character to create his boutonniere!  I also love using the computer chips for those techhie guys! I say the more creative you can be, the better!!

 What do you think of these unique and fun boutonnieres?  We would love to hear which one you like best!

Sources: www.mywedding.com,  www.backyardbridetoronto.com, www.etsy.com via HeadBandShoppe, www.savoirweddings.blogspot.com, www.cubesedenwedding.blogspot.com,

1 Comment / Tags: , , , , , , , , , / Posted in Fashion, Get Inspired

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