My Bellissima

Delicate and Dainty

2012-01-31T15:00:00.001-05:00

There are so many details to inspire us with lace and eyelet! These fabrics add texture and dimension to any wedding...Romantic, delicate and just perfect for any bride. Whether your style is vintage, modern, or anything in between, lace or eyelet is a fabulous detail choice!

The Knot NJ - Real Weddings

2012-01-26T15:04:00.000-05:00

We are so excited for two couples from the My Bellissima family! We were lucky enough to plan the weddings of Laura and Matt and Cathy and Steve...both phenomenal, beautiful days. Now everyone can see the spotlight on their wedding details in the upcoming issue of The Knot NJ! The magazine won't be on stands just yet, but you can get a sneak peak into their weddings right here!

Lightly Toasted With Grape Jelly...YUM!

2012-01-25T13:43:00.001-05:00

Can we say, YUM...This look is classic, yet has a slight modern flair. It has all the right things in all the right places! We wanted to do something that isn't too crazy for the bride that wants something more on the "safer side". For the more daring couple, add in a third hue would be ideal (if you know MB, you know how we love 3 tones for your color board). A soft gray or dusty pink would pair up exquisitely! We love the richness of the purple with the creaminess of the taupe...it is a truly a delicious pairing! Enjoy!

The (Good Kind of) Winter Blues

2012-01-20T12:01:00.000-05:00

Not all winter blues are bad, we think these are gorgeous! Ranging from ice blue to a bold cobalt, blue based weddings are all the rage for 2012, and the possibilities for details are endless! From table decor, to bridesmaid dresses, shoes, grooms' accessories, flowers and more...We'll take these blues any day! Blue and white is classic, but don't be afraid to add in a pop of yellow, green, or purple or grey!

Ruffles, Rosettes, and Texture, oh my!

2012-01-13T12:30:00.003-05:00

We have been getting so inspired by tons of ruffle androsette details this week! These detailsare popping up everywhere from dresses to linens to purses and more….whetheryou are going for a soft romantic look or even a more richmodern look, ruffles and rosettes can add a good deal of texture and make solid colors appear three dimensional (don’t limit yourself to blushes andivory, go for purple, navy or another pop color!)…adding a little texture cantake your wedding palette from flat to fabulous!!!

10 Years In the Making!

2011-11-09T11:00:00.001-05:00

Danielle & Dino "Sugar n' Spice" Teaser (Extended) from Fiore Films on Vimeo.

What can we even say about Danielle and Dino, except for the fact that they are AMAZING! They way they interact with each other...its like no one else is in the room! They have a love that makes your heart skip a beat. We had such a blast with them at their wedding and can't wait to see what the future brings to this couple!

We are obsessed with this incredible video done by Sharrone at Fiore Films. Her work is DELICIOUS! Drop us a line and let us know what you think! Enjoy!

A Rustic Chic Wedding at the Greenbrier

2011-11-02T19:41:00.000-04:00

What a special wedding weekend! Not only did we have the opportunity to work at an amazing venue but the guests there truly made us feel like we were part of the family. We had the fortunate experience to help plan the the brides brothers wedding a few years back. So when we received a phone call from Sarah (MOB) that Molly was getting married, we were thrilled! Molly and Brendan tied the knot after being together for what seems like forever. These two love birds chose to have their wedding at the one and only Greenbrier. Molly and her family spent many summers, weekends and holidays there. So it only made sense to continue the tradition of good times and memories and have their wedding there.

The ceremony was held at the well known spring house, the icon of the Greenbrier. Following the ceremony, guests were escorted to Kate's Mountain Lodge. When I say we were in the hills of West Virginia, it was no joke. We were surrounded by gorgeous mountains that literally took your breath away. The look: rustic chic; and it was exactly that. Overhead garden lights illuminated the tent and lodge. The long family style farm tables were adorned with a classic lace runner. Wild flowers in mercury glass containers and pillar candles dressed the length of the table. The fire pits were blazing and welcomed guest to sit around, have a drink, relax and take in the whole experience. To end the night, the bride and groom had a sparkler farewell as the guests cheered for them one last time.

Along with the fabulous folks at the Greenbrier, we worked with some amazing vendors to help pull this all together. A special thanks to Jen Fariello and crew who truly captured every important detail and moment of the day! Check out the slideshow below to see the beautiful pictures of Molly and Brendan's wedding!

http://www.jenfariello.com/slideshows/Sciaretta/SciarettaSlideshow/

photo credit: Jen Fariello

CALLING ALL BRIDES!

2011-10-13T17:55:00.002-04:00

Hey fellow bloggers! Come join My Bellissima for a Morristown Business Bridal Show on Thursday, November 3, 2011 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Century 21 Department Store, level three, 1 N. Park Place, Morristown, NJ. The event features 27 exhibitors, a fabulous Fashion Show, hors d’oeuvres & refreshments, goody bags, and special door prizes. Parking will be validated. Online registration now open at www.morristownherecomesthebride.com $10, or $15 at the door. RSVP by Friday, October 28, 2011. For more info visit www.morristown-nj.org. We would LOVE to see each of you there! Come say hello!

9.10.11 In New York!

2011-10-12T12:25:00.004-04:00

First, we are so upset for not posting up a blog in a few weeks...wedding season is really kicking our butts in the BEST way possible of course, but no excuses on no new blogs...SO sorry! At least we are coming back with a BANG on this one! Our 9.10.11 wedding held at the New York Athletic Club was seriously beautiful...Diana and Nick were one of those couples that just had that...thing...you know, that MAGIC! They are so in love, but also, have a sense of humor that made everyone laugh to the point your sides were hurting all day long...Talk about fantastic! I just had to put together 2 story boards...one that is more about the "feeling" of the day and the other is strictly humor at its finest! Big thanks to E Leigh Photography for doing an AMAZING job on the photo's...you guys are UNREAL! And of course A Touch Of Elegance for doing the beautiful florals and decor...Enjoy!

They have an obsession with mustaches...and made everyone get in on the fun!

"Hay" Love!

2011-09-20T13:20:00.000-04:00

Hay is not just for horses these days! In fact it has beenturning heads and lifting veils for quite some time now. As we stated earlieron our blog barns are now being turned into the most elegant spaces imaginable.And what’s a barn without some hay? The thing we love about hay is how warm andwelcoming it can make a space feel. In fact it goes great with an antebellum orantiquey theme. Pair it up with some chandeliers, and luminaries (you mightwant to consider LED lights or twinkle lights for safety reasons). Check itout! It makes for great outdoor ceremony seating and cozy photo ops!

Yes, this is more of that "Rustic Chic" look, but being different and putting your own personal stamp on your wedding is huge! No more "cookie cutter" weddings please, we beg of you...do something that represents you and your fiancé...if you focus on that, then you will have a truly personalized wedding day! We just thought this theme was too great to not do a blog about it! Enjoy!

Green With Envy...

2011-09-14T13:06:00.001-04:00

Theme Green today! We are big fans here at MB putting various color combo's together to tell a story for your wedding. But getting back to the basics of using a tonal/one color option for your wedding can be JUST as stunning than a rainbow of hues. Today we picked Emerald Green...just on its own, it is bold, elegant and down right chic! If you are going to pair it up at all, mix in texture with a touch of brushed gold to "enhance the romance"! Keeping it simple is the best way to showcase this powerful tone...you don't need much of it to make an impact, Enjoy!

Powder and Blush!

2011-09-08T08:57:00.002-04:00

So I know Fall is upon us and we are looking for more of the "rich, jewel tones" to inspire weddings this time of year, but we are so in need of a bright and pretty color combo today. This rain/weather here in the North East has just been awful to say the least. We are all looking forward to sunnier days! Which brings me to todays combo...we paired up classic powder blue and blush pink to give a bright happy feel. Now we must warn you, you need to be kinda careful with these two colors together... paired up incorrectly will give you a babyish feel...but if its done correctly, it can be breathtaking! Mix in a touch of brushed gold and my oh my, you are set! We LOVE this, enjoy!

Ready For Fall...

2011-09-06T10:48:00.000-04:00

I can't believe we are saying this...but the Fall season is truly upon us! Now that Labor day weekend has truly come and gone and the kiddies are back to school, we are ready and willing to take on the Fall season with gusto! That smell of Pumpkin Spice is wafting through the air and couples are saying "I Do" to Autumn weddings with tons of romance and of course, our favorite, creative elements! Barns and farm houses are literally being turned into venue spaces, accented in stunning seasonal decor AND delicious tastes/bites around every corner. From cinnamon bun lollipop's, to pumpkin ale's...spiced wedding cakes and of course, warm apple cider...these weddings are not only a treat to go to, but for us at MB, they are even more exciting to plan! Here is an inspiration board to kick off the Fall season with a bang, ENJOY!

Zig Zag-in!

2011-09-01T09:43:00.004-04:00

Who is in need of a some modern flair...we certainly are! Zig Zag-in over here at MB! We are loving this fun, flirty, yet MOD pattern! We were talking about the fact you can make it so elegant OR whimsical...either way its done, we can't get enough of it. Adding simple touches to your table scape will keep it romantic and chic..just like the above picture of the pink runner with accented navy and white patterned napkins. Or give it a whimsical feel with bold colored chivari chairs and a patterned runner...(BTW, we are loving the jean covered vases as well in that pic...too cute). This theme is wonderful to have throughout the entire wedding planning process. Start with touches of this on your stationary (save the dates...thru your thank you's), use this also to accent at your bridal shower. Then keep it classic (again like the above picture with the pink runner) for your wedding decor! No matter how your use it, it is in a word, FANTASTIC! Enjoy!

Get with the program!

2011-08-30T18:11:00.001-04:00

Ah, the wedding program… to have or not to have. Among the many pieces of wedding stationary falls the ceremony program. Sometimes the bride and groom find this as an easy cut and put the extra savings in areas such the menus. (Because of course you need a 3 layer menu, with satin ribbon and maybe even a lil bling if that’s your thing)! But when it comes down to it, the program is the outline of your wedding ceremony. Remember... the whole reason you planned this big day! Although you may think no one notices or cares, your guests actually do appreciate following along. Also, its a quick little introductory guide of the bridal party and who's who. If you are having a multi-cultural/religious ceremony, the program is the perfect outlet to explain to your guests what the traditions and symbolisms are. Finally, its a great way to remember and acknowledge those who are no longer with us and be there to celebrate on your big day.

Like the rest of your stationary, make sure your programs continue the look and feel of the of your wedding. They can be as detailed and in depth as you would like or you can keep it completely simple. Be creative, make your program out of a cootie catcher. (You remember those things we use to make it grade school)! Or, if you are having an outdoor ceremony create a fan styled program and give your guests the option to cool off. Another option, make it part of your décor, hang it on the side or back of the chair. Or place it neatly on the cushion so your guests can't miss it. Plus, its such a great photo op. Your photographer will thank you.

Beyond Burlap...

2011-08-26T09:41:00.000-04:00

So, you are probably thinking...really, burlap...yup, we SO ARE! It is not only adds a TON of texture, but it gives your wedding that rustic yet chic feel to an outside celebration! You can pair this look up with lace...you would be surprised how complimentory the romance of it pairs with the texture of the burlap...it's seriously stunning! OR you can just leave it as is and keep it sweet and simple. This can be used in ALL of your decor options...on your invites, in your florals, as your table runners...seriously the possibilities are endless. As seen in the collage above, you can even add it in as a hair accessory. Pair this look with mason jars filled with sweet tea and tangy lemonade...favors of homemade jelly's and jam's and wild flowers galore! Enjoy!

A My Bellissima Proposal....

2011-08-15T11:27:00.003-04:00

On Friday, August 12th, My Bellissima had the honor and privilege to "plan" and "style" a proposal very near and dear to our hearts. One of our very own, Michael who is managing partner over here at MB, proposed to his beautiful girlfriend, Kristen on the roof top of Midtown Loft right on 5th Avenue. The weather couldn't have been more perfect and the proposal was done at sunset. Kristen's favorite color is pink and Michael wanted to look and feel to be romantic and dramatic.

With much love in the air and the tone of the setting staged to perfection, Michael bent down and asked the question every girl dreams about...of course her response was "YES"! Looking forward to a year ahead of happy times and much planning! Congrats to you both and looking forward to the celebration of the century!

Lovely Lanterns

2011-08-10T11:59:00.000-04:00

It's Wednesday and that means another theme blog for all of you followers out there! This time we are focusing on Chinese lanterns...Can we say, IN LOVE..especially since we are right in the middle of summer wedding season. I think lanterns are a must especially for outdoor events. This theme get's the triple, Fun, Flirty and out course Fabulous!

From patterned lanterns, to tonal in color...even using them as vessels for your florals, this is by far a theme that is tasteful and memorable. As you can see from the picture above, they can be incorporated in your stationary and even be creatively used as your walk down the aisle. By using lanterns to accent your decor, you are creating a look that exemlifies simplicity and ease. They add texture and pops of color to give your look that extra "something" that keeps your guests in awe of your style. Enjoy!

A different meaning for "tying the knot"

2011-08-03T11:47:00.000-04:00

Bow ties are not just menswear anymore! They’re super cheekyand cute. We always love the way creative bowties look on our grooms, so whynot carry the theme throughout the wedding? They make for colorful and creativedécor pieces. For a shabby chic trend you can wrap them around mason jars withthe classic paper straw. We’re also LOVING the bow tie picture props. They’reinexpensive and spice up your photo shoot.

The bows are also great toppers for your desert! we’redrooling over this cake, the icing design is so fun and flirty too! The greatthing about the bows is that they come in so many colors and designs that youcan find almost anything to match your style. Looking to celebrate a littleschool spirit with your bow tie, perhaps you’re more of a polka dot kinda guy?There are so many options out there its hard to choose. If you’re theme leanstowards the southern side like a shabby chic wedding, check outSouthernProper.com for some fabulous beaus!

Beaus don’t have to just be a southern tradition; in factyou can get a little glam with them. Stick to a more geometric or floral designfor your beau. Steer away from the beaus with smaller characters on them. Steertowards some shoes with bows; nothing says glam quite as well as a Badgley Mishkashoe!

Instead of dressing up mason jars, dress your plates up witha napkin folded in a bow style. You get to keep the bows in your décor withoutgetting a little country.

Wild Westen Cactus...

2011-07-28T17:57:00.001-04:00

Lately we’ve been focusing on very rustic chic themes andpictures. Time to switch it up a little bit and go for a more WESTERN feel. Yup...I said western and I’m digging the cacti!

You can get that western cactus feel without the pinches from succulents.They’re extremely versatile too; they look great in bouquets (they are mixed in with peach and yellow tulips above, LOVE), as boutonnieres, incorporated into table scapes/decor and even your food (those cakes look delish!) They can look totallyedgey paired with the right complementary flowers, or pair it with somehydrangea to soften the look. I love them in the collage above as the place card and then double as the favor...too cute!

Now on the prick-ill-ee stuff...We completely loved the way the greens and corals looked together. Ifyou’re looking for a third color for your palette (and we highly recommend you pick more than 2 ) we were thinking along thelines of a charcoal grey to add some masculinity, or a brushed gold for a moreritzy and glitzy feel. Considering green is a secondary color it really matchesa lot, so if coral doesn’t tickle your fancy but the cacti do, don’t worry!You’re options are not limited at all! Skies the limit with this fun plant!!

Showers Don't Have To Be Boring Anymore!

2011-07-26T16:12:00.000-04:00

We were completely inspired from an event we had this pastweekend. A former bride of ours (and also one of Laura's best friends) celebrates her baby shower this past weekend and of course MB was there to add in all the flair! Congrats Meadow family on the upcoming arrival of yourbaby girl! Here are a few pictures from Karin’s shower from this past weekend.

So something that you may not notice at a first glance bylooking at these photo’s are all the cute pink bears and elephants, rattles andbaby themed décor. Oh… wait a second, that wasn’t there at all. And boy, are weglad! We wanted to take a few minutes to look into a few ideas to make baby andbridal showers more fun for the guests. Lets face it, who can honestly play onemore round of bridal bingo? If you’re looking for a fun game that isn’t tackythink about having a tricky tray at your event. These gatherings are alwaysfocused around the baby, but what about the mommy to be?

We are more interested in making the event more enjoyablefor the mommy or bride to be friends. These events are all about catching upand creating new memories, but that’s a little hard to do when we’re openinggifts half the time. Not to be rude by any means, but no one really cares ifyou get a new blender or a bundle of diapers; we all know what that stuff lookslike. Get a little creative when it comes to displaying your gifts. You may nothang your new lingerie from the girls on a clothesline out by the buffet table,but you may want to consider having a display shower. On the invites ask yourguests to wrap gifts in cellophane for the display table, that way everyone cansee what you’ve received if they’re interested without having to spend hoursopening them.

A candy bar is a great way to give your guests a favorwithout any more chachskies cluttering up the house. They can make as many bagsas they’d like to bring home for the kids or hubbie. It’s also something sweetto snack on at the party!

Keep the party classy by having a few drink selections,there’s no need to spend all the extra money on an open bar if you give yourguests some delicious drinks to choose from. If you’re having an outdoor eventkeep it in the lines of lemonade, iced tea, white wine or Prosecco/Champagne. You cannever go wrong with mimosa’s either!

In all we just want to see you and your guests have a goodtime and create memories that will last for years to come… without the cheesygames or décor.

Revamped Station Ideas...YUM!

2011-07-21T16:02:00.000-04:00

We’ve recently realized here at MB that we always go back to the trustystations, you know… the mashed potato’s, candy bars, cookie tables… although great, they’re also getting a little over done. It’s always good to be in theknow of the up and coming! We thought it would be super fun to research somenew stations to have at weddings! People used to have the notion that weddingswere always so fancy shmancy and stuffy at times. Heck, who wants their gueststo feel uptight? It is a celebration after all!

A full guest is a happy guest, so take out those cookbooksand get a yummy treat together for them. A biscuit bar is not just for thesoutherners, although if you have roots in the south I’m sure your guests wouldbe more than thrilled to have this lovely treat waiting for them! You may wantto consider a biscuit bar is your reception is earlier in the day, perhaps abrunch? Its also a great appetizer instead of the trusty rolls and bread. Add bold splashes of color with differentjams and jellies. If you’re daring or just down right real country you can adda bowl of sausage gravy too!

Its been tradition to have a wedding cake at your wedding,but some rules were meant to be broken. Instead of having one large cake, treatyour guests to a station full of different goodies. You can have cookies,cupcakes, pies, pralines, even donuts! Remember, this is your event and itshould reflect your personality, so you can get as traditional or crazy asyou’d like.

Not all stations have to be food related. Shocker that I’msaying that! Cigars are becoming more popular these days. They’re great to getpeople out of their seats and mingling with your other guests. To really getthe conversation flowing, have the drinks flowing as well. Set up some bottlescognac to go along with it as well. But remember, this is your event, if you’renot into cognac set up some bottles of whiskey to complement the cigarsinstead. If you’re feeling like a cigar bar might be too stuffy, add some cutepersonalized signs or colorful monogrammed matchboxes.

Last but certainly not least, we’re loving the idea ofsignature drinks. Get creative with the containers, have the drink color matchyour wedding palette. If you’re having a reception outside set up some largercontainers on a table or your guests to sip on in the heat. Paper straws andlabels are becoming popular as well. If you and your hubby have a favoritedrink why not enjoy it on your big day!

Kites Vs. Balloons ~ LOVE!

2011-07-20T13:47:00.001-04:00

Rumor has it that Kites are the new balloons… We had to take a peek for ourselves and see what all the fuss was about. Check out the palettes Lauren put together and decide for yourself which theme tickles your fancy!

When looking to do a theme for a wedding always try to find a way to incorporate the main idea into all of the elements of the wedding, although incorporating it too much can risk the chance of making your wedding tacky... its always best to have the most options and ideas available, that way you can pick which you like the best! The Kites worked so well when incorporated into the cupcakes and wedding cake. It looks incredibly elegant… not to mention so yummy!

The Kites also make for great décor and props for pictures. The arch with paper kites, flowers, and pinwheels looks amazing. It’s a great splash of color and a perfect way to incorporate their element into the ceremony; which is sometimes hard to do.

And now for the balloons… the sky is the limit… literally!

Lately its been all the rage to have triangle banners all over your event, hanging on fences, in between trees, above dessert tables, you name it they’re there. What we loved about the balloons was the idea to have them stringed along much like the banners. The cupcakes came out looking adorable too! When you think of the balloons being on cakes and cupcakes we automatically thought it would look like a first birthday or the carvel cakes… but these look far from it!

Much like the kites, the balloons make for great photo ops! If you want to set yourself aside from all the other balloon themed weddings you’ve heard of before you should definitely try paddle balloons! They’re much larger than regular balloons and have a more spherical shape to them. Get creative and use a lacey string or bright colors, it’ll look fantastic in contrast to your white dress and his black tux.

So now that you’ve got some ideas… which do you like better? The balloons or the kites?

A destination wedding… in your backyard?

2011-07-13T09:54:00.001-04:00

You don’t have to take a trip across the big lake to get afar away and elegant feel for your event. I got this lovely idea from one ofour very own! In December we will be throwing an incredible Parisian “themed”sweet sixteen. This is no typical sweet sixteen, the style is so elegant andsophisticated it would make an amazing wedding theme as well. The pale pinks,slate grays, and black make a chic and flattering palette for any bride.

At first I was a little weary about looking into this, butonce I started, I found myself up until 2am searching blogs high and low foramazing venues, food and drink pictures, and those little touches that bring itall together. Who can forget theflowers! I love pastel peonies, garden roses, and tulips for this Parisiantheme. A few green and white hydrangea mixed in would contrast against thelight pastels and create an amazing pop of color.

I’ve discovered that I’m a bit of a “foodie” because onevery blog my favorite idea has to do with the food… and today… it’s a crepecake! I would have never stumbled upon this beautiful and DELICIOUS idea if itwere not for this theme. And now I want to use them everywhere! The great thingabout crepes is that they’re so light and can be combined with almost anythingyou can imagine. Just a few ideas:

If you’re a chocolate lover the middle layers can be fudgedsyrup.

You can have a chilled cake with heavy cream between eachlayer with fresh strawberries and blueberries.

What might even be my favorite is a banana and Nutellacrepe. Can you say heaven?

Don’t forget to incorporate those Eiffel Towers andbeautiful French phrases. It would be cute to have your menu in French, and theflip side in English!

Bonne Journee! (Have a nice day!)

Whimsical and Inspiring

2011-07-06T22:21:00.000-04:00

It is every newly weds desire to have a thousand years of happiness together. In the Japanese culture they symbolize these thousand years with paper cranes. Not only do they bring good luck, but they’re cute too! Traditionally the cranes are hung in 25 strands of 40 cranes each, which looks extremely elegant hanging around the cake or as a back drop to the ceremony. After the wedding its something you can take home and have for years to come.

What the best part about the cranes is that they’re made out of paper and string to hold them all together… so inexpensive! What I also like is that you can perfectly match them to whatever color palette you and your soon to be hubby have chosen. The options are endless from all white, to pink, purples, oranges, or even patterned; you name it, it works!

So what if you’re not into a big crane mobile? Not a problem, these little guys can go pretty much anywhere. They’re incredibly light and can be made into all sizes that anything is possible. If you can imagine it, it can be done. Having paper cranes as your seating cards is only the beginning. You can write the names of guests and their table numbers on the wings of the crane, or attach little tags to them. Not particularly interested in a traditional cake topper? Each you and your husband can pick paper colors or patterns that reflect your personalities and use them as your cake topper instead of the traditional bride and groom or bunch of flowers. For example, your husband can pick his favorite baseball or football team and take a clipping from the newspaper with their emblem or logo on it. Are you a shoe fanatic? Take a clipping from a catalog you received in the mail. Or to keep it elegant you can just pick your favorite colors, or keep it all white and color on some lipstick for the bride and a black suit on the groom. Anything goes! They can be used to top cupcakes, hang over the tables, or even on a toothpick for appetizers. How about putting them on the tops of drink stirrers?

If you look back to my octopus blog I mention rolling up paper and tying it with string for guests to write a note to the newly weds. In this case, if you’re having a sit down dinner on the back of the menu cards (or have separate cards) can be instructions on how to create your own crane. Leave paper the color of your choice on each of the plates and have your guests write your notes on a crane! I would suggest a paper size that’s a little on the bigger side so it’s easier for your guests to make them, and they are able to write longer and more inspiring notes on the wings. It’ll take their attention away from the time in between courses and will be a good conversational piece. It also makes a great photo and film opportunity!

Passionate Love ~ Linda and Nick Style

2011-07-05T08:30:00.000-04:00

Where to begin...Linda and Nick hired us back in March 2010 for their June 25th , 2011 wedding at The Palace In Somerset. Linda stumbled across out website before she was even engaged. Linda held on to our information for a year and once Nick popped the question, My Bellissima was practically her next phone call.

When we first met up with Linda and Nick, we fell in Love with both of their infectious personalities! They have this quality...you know that "thing" that makes people gravitate towards them (and of course their quintessential Staten Island accent is just the icing on the cake). I would like to point out that Nick was just as involved in the planning process as much as Linda from the moment they signed on with us. It was incredible working with these two firecrackers! They made us laugh more than I could handle...seriously hysterical!

As for the wedding, they knew what they wanted...purple tones, glam and romantic, over the top with fireworks (literally) and of course, "BLING". I can definitely say I think we achieved this look and they were truly in LOVE with their wedding day and reception. From the fab florals A Touch Of Elegance, to the amazing photography Jamie K...to the custom runner Original Runner Company with Linda and Nick's consistent logo in the middle of it. The cake Pink Cake Box was a complete show stopper and had it's own structure over it..chandelier and all...done in a Platinum hue and the bottom tier replicated to look like Linda's dress. The beautiful custom stationary Cherish The Moment was a perfect touch to all of the decor. I can honestly say, it was a PERFECT day and we had a blast! Big thanks to our Bella staff who helped us out, not just the day of, but the weeks leading up to the wedding... you guys ROCK! Enjoy!

Thumbs Up To The 4th!

2011-07-03T10:08:00.000-04:00

Kara and I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy 4th of July weekend! We hope you have an incredible holiday and enjoy the time with friends and family! Big thanks to Jamie K for sending us Linda and Nick's wedding photo's from their June 25th wedding last week at The Palace. This photo works out perfect for this time of year. Enjoy!

Mini Obsession, With A Little Southern Flair...

2011-06-30T14:53:00.000-04:00

Mornin’ Y’all! Oh pardon me… we’re in the north… GET OUT OF THE WAY! See for me that’s too harsh and over bearing. What I also though to be a little over bearing is the worlds demand for everything to have everything so BIG. The necessity for BIG houses, BIG cars, BIG paychecks… and especially in this part of the country, BIG WEDDINGS and BIG rings (okay ladies, the big rings and weddings are not so bad). Now don’t get me wrong, big weddings are great, and sometimes just a down right good time. But what I’ve noticed about the north and south is that the north is all about that glitz and glam, and the south is all about that home cookin’ and hospitality.

Is there any better way to make guests feel welcome than to greet them with some mini pork sliders and a mason jar of momma’s drunken sweet tea? I reckon there ain’t no better way to kick off a honky tonkin’ time! Don’t worry Staten Island brides, I’m not trying to take all the glitz and glam away; heck I love it! But what I was thinking (maybe a little crazy?) was to bring some of the south up to the north. And not to sound completely cheesy (we don’t do “cheese” here) but this again is why I love My Bellissima. Any crazy ideas that a couple has… more than likely these girls can get it done, and with style. The events done here are far from grandma’s cookie cutter wedding. So how about we dig up them ole’ mason jars, fill em’ with some uhh martini’s? And celebrate!

Going mini can be great and cost effective as well. If there is a whole list of foods that you’re dying to have at your wedding but simply don’t have the budget, mini’s can be the way to go! You won’t need too much of one item, just because the portions are smaller. Mini’s and shooters as appetizers also gives your guests the ability to try everything without having to unbutton those trousers before getting their main course… or sliding on over to the dance floor.

For Supper; nothing is made Mini during supper in the south. We like to fill up them plates and get some good meat on our bones! Something like shrimp and grits, mashed potatoes, (or for a more Northern feel roasted red potatoes), tomato bread pudding, and of course a cut of beef is what I tend to lean towards!

Now desert, that’s a whole nother ballgame… another thing I noticed that is super hot up in the north is cupcakes, no plates or knives needed! Well down in Georgia it’s all about those mini pies: pecan, peach, strawberry, and blueberry. Cake tables are filled with them, mainly with the wedding cake displayed in the middle with an assortment of mini pies scattered all around. You get the southern taste, with the north’s simplicity of just pickin’ em’ up off the table. Now if mini pies aren’t your thing, how about mini wedding cakes? They’re a step up from cupcakes and still give off a very warm and personalized touch. Another idea that I stumbled upon was a donut shooter! How cute! You can place these on the cake table, or have them served on a plate accompanied with the mini pies.

So maybe I’m just a Looney Toon, or I’m on to something great. But for those brides out there who want a big wedding, with a personalized feel I think it’s a great idea to try and incorporate some mini’s.

Let me know what you think!

An Ocean Theme with a HUGE Twist...

2011-06-29T12:18:00.000-04:00

So maybe it was a combination between watching Pirates of the Caribbean last night or browsing around etsy but I got the urge to make this weeks theme an octopus/deep blue theme.

I never realized how cute this could be! It also works well for any kind of occasion, wedding, birthday, family reunion, you name it. Ideally, it would work great at a dock party or an event held at a marina.

What I think I like most about this theme was the idea of a message in a bottle. Having the place cards as little bottles with the names attached is so precious! Also having each guest write a message to the bride and groom is a cute idea too. Maybe having 150+ bottles is a little overwhelming to go through after the honey moon, so instead you could roll the paper up and tie it with a piece of string as the message. You’ll get the same feel without having to lug a case of bottles back to the hotel afterwards! After the wedding you can keep them in a “treasure chest” or box of your choice to look through on milestone anniversaries to remind yourselves of what an awesome couple you are! The creativity doesn’t have to stop there, you can jazz up the event with custom octopus plates and deep blue or emerald green chargers!

Grass Green Theme!

2011-06-22T11:58:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! It’s Lauren again! I hope you all enjoyed last weeks lobster theme.

It’s finally warming up, and before all of our lawns burn to a crispy brown this summer I thought it would be fun to look into a grass/outdoorsy theme! There are so many different options you can choose between, from grass centerpieces to green roses I thought it would be a great way to get the creative juices flowing.

Another great thing about a grass theme is that green matches very well with navy, pink, yellow, white, and even black. The green tone also gives off a very fresh and preppy feel.

Let me know what you think!

Lobsterlicious!

2011-06-15T09:19:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone!!

I am super excited to say that I am the new summer intern for My Bellissima! My name is Lauren and I will be entering my senior year at the University of Georgia this fall.

What caught my eye about My Bellissima was their amazing knack for color palettes. For my time here this summer I thought it would be fun to spin off of their great ideas and put together some themed inspiration boards every Wednesday.

Now when I say “themed” don’t get the notion that I will be doing “A Night in Hollywood” or something like “Famous Couples” or any other tacky prom themes that you may have encountered in the past. Sure they were fun crazy, but we’re looking for something geared more towards fun and elegant. I’m not sure where or how in time the word “theme” got such a negative connotation… In fact, themes can make all the difference in a wedding! Having a few small items can tie together an event and can also showcase the couple’s personalities.

This Wednesday I choose to share a Lobster theme, great for any Independence Day bash or clambake wedding. Enjoy, and let us know what you think!

Fabulous Find!

2011-06-09T17:57:00.000-04:00

To all you brides out there...actually all you ladies out there, do yourself a favor and make sure you check out Mojuba. It is seriously the ultimate emergency kit for not just your wedding day, but for any out of town get away. Kara and I are in love with these...they even have mini ones too (the small clutch's in the above photo collage) that are perfect and literally fit anywhere. Also, you can give these as a perfect shower gift to your girl friend, or for you brides out there, you can give these to your bridesmaids...such an essential to anyones "must have" list! For more information check out there site...just thought we had the share this fabulous find, enjoy!

Calling All Fashionista Brides!

2011-06-01T12:35:00.000-04:00

We always tell our couples to make the most out of their day because it flies by! Take in every moment that you possibly can and what you can't you will relive through your photos and video. Well, now we found an even better way to recall the details of your special day, especially for our bride that is a fashionista! Brooke Hagel, of Fabulous Doodles, is a fashion illustrator and graduate from the Fashion Institute of Technology. She started her etsy shop a few years ago which has allowed her to explore her passions… fashion and drawing. http://www.etsy.com/shop/brooklitbride. To learn more about Brooke and her designs, check out her blog: http://fabulousdoodles.blogspot.com/p/find-me.html

Here are a few examples of Brooke's dashing doodles!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/brooklitbride

A Cool Breeze In The Summer Heat...

2011-05-26T12:02:00.001-04:00

I have to tell you, these last two days of pure summer sunshine have inspired me to post a color combo that gives off the feeling of a cool summer breeze with a twist of vintage chic! This combo of blue mist, pale violet with a touch of delft-y gray is a must have in our book! It is truly timeless and was actually inspired by the geometric blue mist clutch in this color board. Find ways to put new color combo's together that are not the typical match up...standing out and being a bit "daring" will make your wedding that much more memorable to both you and your guests, enjoy!

Matthew + Laura = Perfection

2011-05-23T08:42:00.004-04:00

What can we say about this couple except, WOW...they are very near and dear to our heart and have a love so pure and genuine that it was infectious being around them! We had the pleasure of creating Matt and Laura's wedding day back in March....one that truly defined romance! With colors Blush, Champagne and Taupe, we created an early "springlike" feel with various textures an elements. With exposed branches adorned with blush orchids, tons and tons of candle light, the ballroom at Seasons in Washington Township, NJ was a vision to say the least. The beautiful florals and rentals were by A Touch Of Elegance. The bark champagne linens were by Table Wraps and stunning pictures by the incredible Jennifer Davis Photography. The couple along with their 200+ guests danced the night away to the unbelievable Paul Anthony Entertainment, but the biggest treat of the night was the groom's cover version of "My Everything" by Michael Buble that he had previously recorded for his stunning bride. We are looking forward to seeing the video highlights of the evening from videoccasions! We had a team of "A" list vendors on board to create the magical evening. Here are some of the pictures Jen had sent us! Enjoy!

Can We Say YUM!

2011-05-19T16:53:00.000-04:00

Every time we meet with a new client to do their color design, we try to pair up hues that truly are a reflection of their individual style and taste. When new bride Jordan came in to meet with us, we wanted to highlight her favorite color (purple) but add a flirty spin on it. We paired up Raspberry, Mink and Plum for her upcoming 2012 wedding. We are SO in love with it and just had to share!! Enjoy!

Survey Time!!!

2011-05-16T13:48:00.000-04:00

Kara posted this up on Facebook, but I know some of our followers do not have Facebook accounts.

We want to know… Would you ever wear white to someone else's wedding?

A. No way! I would never want to upstage the bride... this is her moment!
B. I would definitely wear a shade of white but nothing that resembled a bridal gown.
C. Who cares?! They are not looking at me that day!
D. I actually had no idea that this faux pas even existed!

Let us know what you think!!!

Attention Guests: Do NOT wear white!

2011-05-16T08:40:00.001-04:00

When Billy Idol sang "It's a nice day for a white wedding" he didn't mean for everyone! As far as wedding etiquette goes, this is a big NO NO! So for anyone out there that is not familiar with this offensive faux pas, listen carefully. Not only are you considered to be upstaging the bride but all of the guests will be saying "can you believe she wore white?" This goes for all shades of white by the way: ivory, off-white, cream, etc. If its questionable, don't wear it! But today, we have seen several couples that have chosen to have their bridesmaids dress in these pure shades. For starters, look at the Royal Wedding!

This etiquette also applies for bridal showers, engagement parties, etc. In other words, if you are going to an event to celebrate the happy couple in anyway, you should leave the white attire to the bride unless she specifies otherwise.

Have a Little Fun...

2011-05-12T14:17:00.000-04:00

I just had to post this up on our blog!!! It was from our March 12th wedding with a fantastic couple Matthew and Laura Fitzpatrick! They had an absolutely amazing day with perfect weather and seemless planning thanks to My Bellissima! This couple has a wonderful sense of humor and brought props with them during their portraits just to give them a little extra "POP"! As you can see, they had a blast with them! On your wedding day, remember, don't sweat the small stuff...its about having fun, enjoying every single second and most of all...marrying your best friend! Big Congrats to the happy couple, we adore you both. The photography was done by the AMAZING Jennifer Davis of Jennifer Davis Photography!!! Photo credit: Jennifer Davis

Make It Personal...

2011-05-05T12:09:00.000-04:00

What makes a wedding stand out and truly be non “cookie cutter”? We talk about being different...stepping outside the box...taking bold moves that make an impact to your guests that are not the typical look. How can you achieve this? Easily, by letting your true individual style reflect your day. In this blog, I wanted to focus on not being scared to use patterns that all have a complimentary thread about them. Trust me, it will tie your look together more than you know. Geometric patterns are so hot right now and are taking the wedding world by storm! For instance, this color combination of Clementine and Navy is bold, yet classic at the same time. Instead of having your girls in typical necklaces made of sparkly gems, look into something like this bold orange rope necklace...you know they will definitely wear it again and it is fun and different. Or how about doing fun patterned purses instead of flowers..they will “POP” in your pictures and just like the necklaces, will be used again and again! Just remember it is your day and your style...do what you love and make it personal!

Linens 101

2011-04-17T22:48:00.000-04:00

We gave you the 411 on chairs so we only thought it was right that we told you about linens. When you book your venue, typically linens come along with the package. Some places will give you a color option but majority of places will charge you for any upgrades. An ivory damask {top left picture} is traditionally what the venue will offer. Another common linen that is included in the venues package would be a solid polyester {bottom, 2nd left pic}. These come in multiple colors and if you can't afford a specialty linen, consider choosing this in a color that works with your palette. If you are having a swanky kind of affair, a lush satin linen {top row, 2nd left pic},would fit the bill. Next to that is called pin tuck. We use this one for many of our clients because it not only gives your table texture but also comes in many colors. Also, something to keep in mind, its price point is middle of the road for specialty linens. We also wanted to highlight the idea of using a runner {top right pic}. This gives you the opportunity to use the venues or a less expensive tablecloth but then adorn it with a patterned or colored runner. This creates long lines and helps define the centerpieces. Another fun fabric is called bengaline {bottom left}. This fabric has a ridged texture to it but the shiny material almost gives it a iridescent look. Great for chair cushions as well! We just love the crinkle taffeta featured below {bottom row, 3rd in}. It can work for so many different styles: fresh & fun or elegant & classy! And talk about texture! Finally, don't be afraid to use a pattered linen. This allows you to go simple everywhere else on the table letting the cloth speak for itself.

But whatever you do, don't ignore what linen is on the table. This is the base of your decor and it will affect the overall look of the room. There are different tips and tricks you can do to create the look that you want and selecting the right linen is the first step!

Diamonds REALLY Are A Girls Best Friend

2011-04-13T15:50:00.001-04:00

What girl doesn't LOVE diamonds? I know we sure do! Let’s take a moment and talk about the 2 wedding band trend that has been around for a while, but has lately been in full force with so many of our brides. I must say, I LOVE IT (and not because I personally have followed this trend ;) ) but because there is something about the symmetry of it that makes it look complete. So I am putting it out there, do you love this trend and think it will be around for a while, or do you think it will fade out and go back to the root of the engagement ring and the wedding band...thoughts welcome...let us know your opinion on this!

Chairs 101

2011-04-08T17:31:00.000-04:00

I was with one of my clients the other day designing the floral and décor aspect of their wedding and the topic of chairs was brought up. They are very willing to rent new chairs for the wedding because the chairs that the venue provides just won’t cut it. Also, they know that it will affect the overall look. Yay, they get it! J This inspired me to write a blog about, yes, chairs! You find the perfect place, the food is fabulous, the grounds are gorgeous, the room is remarkable, the chairs are SHRIEKKK… hideous! How can it be, everything else is perfect? Have no fear, there is a solution for that.

Many times when designing a wedding, couples forget about the elements that make up your room (ie. chairs, linens, chargers, etc). These in turn produce a better look which ultimately gives you better pictures. So DON’T not book a venue based on the chairs but DO make room in your rental budget for them.

Since we are on the topic what better time to give you a tutorial than now. The first one (top left corner) is your traditional banquet chair (this is the one that will cause the Alfred Hitchcock shriek). The one to the right of that is called a ghost chair. This has a very chic and modern look to it… loft wedding anyone. Next to that is a chair cap. Now this is different than a chair cover, we’ll get to that! This is taking a simple chair and giving it a personality by adding a cap to just the top of it or the back of it. Depending on the style it may be too much for all of the chairs. So make the bride and grooms chairs stand out… after all, you are the guests of honor. Top right corner is the chivari chair also known as the ballroom chair. Fortunately, this is becoming the norm in many new venues. They come in SO many different colors so you may choose a gold, silver or mahogany for a more formal event or a white, natural or a color for a daytime or more festive event. Plus they come with comfy cushions in a range of colors as well. Bottom left is a wooden folding chair. This comes in plastic as too. These are most common for outdoor ceremonies or daytime events. Next to that is a spandex chair cover. This is an alternative to the traditional, but we haven’t “covered” that yet. J As you can see it can come in multiple color options and covers an ugly chair giving it more of a sleek look. To the right of that is the bellini chair. Another sleek and modern look and it can be found in fun colors. Finally, the traditional chair cover. One word. Yikes! This look is outdated and truly can be a hazard! They unfortunately don’t stay in place which causes people to trip on the bottom and slide off the seat and overall it ends up looking sloppy.

So, that is Chairs 101, I hope you enjoyed and learned a thing or two!

Little Black Book....

2011-03-30T11:49:00.000-04:00

In life, some people have what they call a bucket list, a compilation of life’s goals and aspirations. Well, here at MB, we have one our very own. We are proud to say that we can officially check off the list becoming an accepted member of the prestigious Style Me Pretty’s Little Black Book. What is this you may ask…

“Style Me Pretty http://www.stylemepretty.com SMP is a nationally recognized inspirational wedding resource that publishes original content via blog format.”

“Little Black Book http://www.stylemepretty.com/little-black-book/ We are not a "yellow pages" list. Our thoughtfully edited resource showcases only the most innovative and chic, top quality wedding professionals on the planet.”

Why choose My Bellissima to participate because SMP’s worldwide sophisticated readership is searching virtually for the best wedding inspiration, advice and vendors. Specifically, “because we genuinely admire the high quality of your wedding planning service, Laura and Kara, your expertise in the following areas has impressed our team”:

--exceptional customer care

--superior design style

--the continual honing of one’s craft

--a genuine interest in fostering a relationship with the client

--highly recommended by colleagues and clients

We could not be more thrilled to join such a distinguished resource. Come visit us and check out some of our fabulous featured weddings! http://mybellissima.stylemepretty.com/vendor-profile/

What "Inspires" You?

2011-03-23T21:49:00.000-04:00

Sometimes starting the design and décor process of a wedding can be challenging for some brides. So here is a little tidbit that may help “inspire” you to find your palette. Look around the house or when you’re gallivanting through the mall take notice of different patterns, colors and textures. Something as simple as a pillow on your couch, or your trusty apron to a funky lamp shade may just do the trick to assist you when personalizing your palette!

Get "hung up" on these!

2011-03-23T21:42:00.002-04:00

We can’t say it enough… It’s all about the details. We found these adorable hangers that can be personalized with your names or of course it can be adorned with the word LOVE, which says it all! Your gown WILL BE photographed, so unless you have some fancy hanger that came with your dress, consider this as an option!

Photo Credit: Heather Parker Photography

Rock-N-Roll with a Twist....

2011-03-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

Since today is a bit gloomy outside, I was inspired by the rain to put together a Vamp-y look of Steel Gray, Onyx and Ruby Red. This theme is more for that "adventurous" kind of bride, but this look has so many layers to it that we are really loving this look! The chargers are so textured and almost GLAM in a way since they sparkle from every angle. The Onyx champagne flutes are fabulous for a twist on your first toast as husband and wife. The POP of ruby red just ties this whole look together with hint color....this is truly Vamp-d up Rock-n- Roll! Enjoy!

Pinwheel Panache

2011-03-14T13:16:00.000-04:00

Lately we have been trying to spotlight bridesmaids with fun and creative ideas to help them stand out even more than the "usual" look. We absolutely LOVE this option of pinwheels instead of bouquets...A) they can be done ahead of time...B) they are SUPER cost effective with a fun splash of color and C) they can be done in a fun flirty pattern to compliment their dresses. We love that they really "POP" in photographs and add another layer of texture. Enjoy! Photo credit: Jeret Slack Photography

Pretty Pink ~ With a Splash of Polka dots!

2011-03-07T16:27:00.000-05:00

This pastSaturday, our lovely April 23rd bride Cathy, had a pink/polka dot blast at her bridal shower! This was like NO OTHER SHOWER! I just had to post up some of the amazing details shots that her wonderful sister, Karen made happen! From splits of Pink POP champagne, to a custom pink candy bar...it was perfect! A cupcake tower and custom topper (with a replica of the bride along with her pup on top) were from the incredible Pink Cake Box, FAB florals and decor (runners, chargers..you know, the works) from A Touch Of Elegance. The delicious candy bar was from Lisa's Candy Buffet (YUM) and beautiful custom stationary (invitations, menu's, favor tags, etc) from Cherish The Moment! This was nothing short of AMAZING and am so glad that Cathy and her family had a wonderful time! We can't wait for their April wedding...it will be a show stopper! Enjoy!

Do You Etsy...

2011-02-28T18:44:00.000-05:00

Etsy...if you don't know what this is, you should...it is by far the coolest, most incredible website with anything/everything you can think of...ESPECIALLY FOR WEDDINGS! From veil birdcages, to invitations, evvening bags to wedding wands, this site will definitely fill in the blanks with incredible items. Everthing in the inspiration board above is from Etsy. Shop around and see what you find...WARNING, you will be on it for hours on end! Happy shopping!

The LBD 4 Your B-PTY!

2011-02-25T14:26:00.000-05:00

When planning your wedding, you want everything to look incredible! From the location, to your dress, to the décor and everything in between. This also includes your fabulous bridal party and that they are going to wear on your big day! For as long as we have been planning weddings, one of the biggest requests are "I want my girls to be able to wear their dress again." Well, as much as your girls appreciate the thought, (after all, they are spending a pretty penny on a dress that thus far can only be worn once, it would be nice to rock the frock again) in all actuality, wearing a bridesmaid dress again normally doesn't happen. Let it be the style, or the cut, or the material, a bridesmaid dress usually looks like one. How can this be avoided you ask...luckily, some incredible bridesmaid lines like are giving some various options for your girls to look great..not just on the wedding day, but for years to come! Which brings me to the "LBD", aka "Little Black Dress"! The LBD is an essential part of a woman’s wardrobe. By giving your girls options, you are allowing them to have their true individual style shine while staying within the wedding theme. Take these LBD's for instance...they go from timeless, to flirty, to sexy and flat our fun..your girls will look their best in a dress they will wear again and again! Can we say LOVE! Enjoy!

Creamsicle Inspiration

2011-02-22T23:51:00.000-05:00

With March right around the corner come the much awaited spring season knocking at our doors. The colors Cream and Orange are a perfect combo to make any spring or summer wedding a crowd pleaser! This Creamsicle Inspiration board is flirty yet delicious all at the same time. Put your girls in Orange hue dresses complimented with Cream cardigans. Also, in true MB Style, Gold or Silver both equally work if you need to throw a metallic in the mix! With or without it, this color combo is a true stunner! Enjoy!

Susan & Todd Teaser

2011-02-15T17:11:00.002-05:00

We have been anxiously awaiting this teaser from the FABULOUS Fiore Films of Susan and Todd’s October wedding that was a fairytale come to life! This couple has gone through so much and getting down the aisle was a magical day to say the least. We want to wish Susan and Todd a life of love, HEALTH and happiness. Big thanks to Sharrone and her team from Fiore Films who captured this day as the true masterpiece it was…you are incredible artists and it shows! ENJOY!

Who Said "Yellow" Should Be Mellow...

2011-02-13T13:38:00.000-05:00

It these cold winter months, we are all longing for that warm feeling of sunshine that we know "yellow" just exude! This fun (yet flirty) inspiration board warms your from the inside out. You can pair this up with various other hue's (blue's, purple's, pink's just to name a few) or leave it alone as the above! Put your own personal spin on it and make it your own! Enjoy!

A Black and Blue wedding that's sure to leave a mark!

2011-02-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

These classic colors have a bad connotation of being a “bruise” … something ugly. When you pair the two sophisticated shades together, you can clearly see it’s a sight of beauty. We chose to pair lace with the duo to act as the background pattern that will help “marry” the theme. But the great thing about lace is that it’s not only a design it’s also a fabric so it can be used for multiple scenarios. Lace shoes and dresses to adorning the delicate detail on the cake and stationary.

Ps. Don’t forget your black or blue lace undergarments… your new hubby will appreciate that you followed the theme!

Purple GLAM ~ Fit For A Princess

2011-02-03T13:46:00.000-05:00

I had posted this collage up yesterday on Facebook and got such an amazing response from it...I just had to put it on our blog! This is an inspiration board on behalf of one of our June clients getting married at the Palace in Someset NJ. She is in love with purple and glam and this truly reflects her style and taste! We are IN LOVE with this deep rich hue and are thrilled to do it with a glam twist! Enjoy!

Oh Spring, Where Art Thou?

2011-02-02T09:31:00.000-05:00

How many of you are just SICK of this horrible winter we are having in the northeast...we are certainly "California Dreaming on such a winters day" today in our office! We are longing for Spring....you know that feeling you get when you realize winter is truly over... that warm feeling of sunshine on your face and the smell of fragrant fresh flowers in the air. Oh Spring, please come soon! I (Laura) was inspired by the season with pink/honeysuckle tones (ps, honeysuckle is the "IT" color for 2011) and cool mint! It's a floral/preppy twist perfect for that time of year! Enjoy!

Calling All Cake Lovers...

2011-01-21T11:31:00.000-05:00

We love everything wedding...that is pretty obvious, but when it comes to "events" in general, we are equally as excited to plan those as well! Especially when it is kicked up a notch with a slice of perfection! A great "crowd pleaser" is always a specialty cake! Let’s face it, who doesn't LOVE a great piece of sweetness?! It's like a slice of heaven...that not just looks good, buts tastes amazing. From Big "0" birthdays, to Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, grooms cakes and even holiday gatherings, a specialty cake is the cherry on top to a fabulous event. Big thanks to Pink Cake Box and Cakes By Stef for these incredible creations you have done for us! They were "icing on top" to the event!

2011 Pick... The Knot "Best Of" Award!

2011-01-17T13:00:00.001-05:00

It's official, My Bellissima is a 2011 pick for The Knot "Best Of" Award! So many people say to us, I don't know how you do what you do (mostly people in the wedding world). And we respond by saying: "we do it because its the most amazing job!" Sure, we deal with situations where we have to think on our feet, but how boring would it be if there was never any drama. (Not that we ask for it). We get to work with people that are planning for the most special day in their lives (up to this point). And then we get to actually see all of the planning and decision making come to life while witnessing the moment that they become husband and wife. How cool! That's why when we received a call from The Knot telling us that we were chosen for the 2011 pick, it showed us that we are appreciated. And that's all we can ask for.
So, here is to all of our AMAZING clients who have given us the opportunity to be part of their special day, in turn praising us with kind words. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We couldn't have done it without you!

Style Me Pretty....

2011-01-12T17:41:00.000-05:00

When Kara and I got into the wedding planning business, we set some big goals for ourselves. And today one of our goals have come true! We were featured today on the prestigious Style Me Pretty blog site! And for all of you wedding blog followers out there, you know, Style Me Pretty is the Crème de la Crème of wedding blogs. We crossed our fingers and submitted one of our favorite July 2010 weddings to them and it was chosen! Now, Kara and I said, "we will believe it when we see it" and today, the wish came true!

Please click on the Style Me Pretty link above to get the full story about this wonderful couple, but as a brief summary, this wedding took place back in July at Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton NJ. The couple, Hanna and Barry Bruno, had a intimate 70 person wedding and spared no expense on the details! (like we have mentioned, it's ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS). We made sure every ounce of this wedding truly represented them and told their story! We are very proud of this wedding and hope you enjoy all the pictures!

So far 2011 has been an AMAZING year...and we are only two weeks in! Enjoy!

Following "A Stationary" Theme

2011-01-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

So when it comes to planning your wedding, we we at MB are always talking about telling “your story”…not being so “cookie cutter”. Having some type of consistent theme that is throughout your planning is crucial to a personalized wedding. One of the best way to make this evident to your guests, is through your stationary. Following a theme from start to finish “sets the tone” of not only your colors, but the style of your wedding as well. You can go very basic, or extremely elaborate, depending on your theme and budget. Take the collage above, Susan and Todd, one of our previous 2010 couples, had a silhouette logo made of themselves and had the theme follow through her stationary. From the save the dates to even the pillows in their lounge during their reception, this simple touch held the cohesive thread that tied it all together. It was tasteful and memorable! Making your wedding personal is what it is all about and stationary is one of the best ways to portray this though out your wedding! Enjoy! Photo Credit: Jamie K Photography

New Years Wedding

2010-12-30T16:42:00.000-05:00

For many of you, tomorrow will be another night of crazy new years fun. for some of you, you will be attending a new years eve wedding! These are such a blast, not only because it is the biggest party night of the year that you are able to drink the best bubbly ever, but because everyone always wants to have serious plans on new years and never live up to the hype of what they wanted! So for you select few, it's a win win! You can get all decked out and celebrate with family and friends! Talk about a memorable night! Here is our "sugar plum" inspiration of new years! Have a happy and healthy night celebrating and looking forward to bringing you the lastest in everything wedding in 2011! Cheers!

2010 Record Year

2010-12-28T17:38:00.001-05:00

As 2010 is coming to an end, we have taken the time to look back and reflect about some of the FABULOUS weddings we did this year. 2010 was truly a record breaking year at My Bellissima… From AMAZING weddings, bridal shows and of course, welcoming Cooper Thorson to the MB family! We could not have had the great success we did without our beautiful brides who each brought their own style, opinions and most of all personalities into each of their weddings. Each and every 2010 bride stepped out of the normal “cookie cutter” wedding traditions and allowed us to create a one of a kind day that we will all remember. Every wedding took on its own personality that truly reflected the bride and groom, which is what we love to see.

We cannot wait to see what 2011 brings for us at My Bellissima... We are anticipating and even bigger and better year! =)

The picture above are just some highlighted couples from this incredible wedding season. Which brings us to our next point, we want to give out a HUGE thanks at all the amazing photographers that we are privileged to work with. Without you, we would never be able to “display” what we do. Photo credits for the above: Robert Wagner Photography, Jennifer Davis Photography, Jamie K Photography, Konrad Kolen Photography and Jason Groupp. Happy 2011...may your year be filled with nothing but LOVE!

A Christmas Poem ~ MB Style!

2010-12-21T15:28:00.000-05:00

“T’was the Bride”

'T’was the night before New Years
And all through the house,
The girlfriend was angry
She wasn't a spouse!

She hoped for the joy
That Christmas would bring.
But Christmas had passed,
And she still had no ring!

They'd been together
For over two years.
Long-term commitment-
That must be his fear.

She thought, "That's the reason
That I'm still single.
I'm breaking it off!
Then the phone gave a jingle.

"Come outside," said the voice,
And then went away.
She opened the door,
And there was a sleigh!

He whisked her away,
Grinned like a fox
Got down on one knee
And opened the box.

T’was the first day of the New Year
Her eyes opened wide.
"Yesterday, I'm a girlfriend.
Today, I'm a bride!"

She started to panic
"There's so much to do!
To plan a whole wedding.
What do I do?

How do I afford
Everything that I need
To end up with the wedding
Of which I have dreamed?"

She remembered a quote
“Be a guest at your own event”
She quickly called My Bellissima
And began to vent.

Her eyes, how they twinkled!
Her smile seemed to glow!
She knew “the girls with the pearls”
Would be running the show!”

Reception hall! Caterer!
Florist and tux!
Save money, save time,
And no acid reflux!

Video! DJ! Photo!
Limousine & Gown!
I won't have to be running
All over the town!"

So she met with Kara & Laura
Who then put her at ease.
Explained how they could help
And discussed consultation, planning & fees.

The girls at My Bellissima
Have made this process fun,
It was the best decision I made,
Now my planning is all done!

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes
from My Bellissima!

Escort Cards and Place Cards

2010-12-20T14:32:00.002-05:00

WE loved these ideas and had blog abou it! Escort/place cards do not just have to be a piece of stationary. As you all know, at MB we LOVE to make ordinary elements of a wedding look unique and fresh… Here are the differences and some creative options for you, but first, lets talk about the rules of each.

The Difference Between Place Cards & Escort Cards

Place Cards - Used for formal seating, place cards are used when guests have specific seating, in specific chairs. The card directs them to their designated 'place'.

Escort Cards - These are used when guests are assigned to certain tables, but their chair *at* that table is not determined. This allows guests to find their table, then choose where they want to sit at their designated table (more flexibility). Escort cards are most commonly used at weddings, even though most people incorrectly refer to them as 'place cards'.

How to Address Your Escort Cards

Individual Names - Every guest has his/her own escort card, with his/her first and last name, and numerical table number written at the bottom of the card. Example: 'Mr. John Smith' then '6'.

Couples' Names - There is one escort card per couple. Example: 'Mr. & Mrs. John Smith' or 'Mr. John Smith & Guest' then '6'.

Which is preferred? As a planner, in my own personal experience, I prefer the former over the latter. Here's why: If you are on a limited budget and you can only afford to let certain guests bring dates (i.e., all married, engaged, and in serious relationships can bring a date). When everyone has their own escort card, it is less obvious who brought dates, and who didn't. It also makes for a cleaner presentation than having some escort cards with two names, and some escort cards with only one name.

On another note, the words 'and Guest' are quite impersonal on an escort card. By this time, the guest has shared in the excitement of your ceremony, so for them to see 'and Guest' at this time may not be a warm way to welcome them to your reception. Try to get the names of all guests, so that each and every one feels a part of your wedding day.

How you display your escort cards also plays a big role in the feelings your guests get from looking at them. There are many ways to make standard place cards become memorable. For visual beauty, arrange escort cards inside of a large picture frame and hang on the wall. For a more effortless look, hang them on a clothes line or from flowers... Place them in tall glass or hang from the back of each guest’s chair. The ideas are endless, so be creative!

Apricot, Melon and Taupe!

2010-12-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

We simply fell in love with this color combo when discussing it with one of our new brides! It is fresh, fun and perfect for the spring and summer… apricot and melon with accents of shimmery taupe. It is so visually refreshing to the eye, while being stunning. There is something about apricot and melon that just screams warmer weather! Can you imagine your bridesmaids wearing taupe dresses, carrying bouquets filled with apricot and melon colored flowers? or a bold dress with softer apricot accents... WE CAN and love it! Don’t be afraid to mix these two beautiful, bright colors because the taupe will compliment it perfectly. Apricot and melon colors are also a great way to add a "girlie" feel to your wedding without using pink. LOVE IT!

Winter Favors and Flavors

2010-11-30T15:39:00.000-05:00

When it comes to your final touch of the evening, edible favors are the perfect way to go to leave your guests with a delicious lasting impression. After all, you know people will actually use/eat them! Especially this time of year, winter weddings are simply gorgeous, but when it comes to favors, they can sometimes fall flat. Yes, it is “the most wonderful time of the year”… but that doesn’t mean it has to be all about the holidays. When we think winter, we think cozy, warm and happy. Your guests already have all of the holiday décor that they need at their houses, so you don’t need to give them more "stuff/ knickknacks" . Instead, give them something that they will really enjoy! Ok raise your hands if you love homemade S’Mores... yummy hot coco...warm cookies and milk or fudgy brownie bits?! These adorable and festive treats will allow your guests to enjoy your wedding days after it is over! If you are on a budget they are even easy and cost effective to make yourself!
Big thanks to the fab Jamie K for the S’mores picture from Craig and Tara’s December 2009 wedding! Happy "almost" anniversary guys!Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving...And A Sweet Treat!

2010-11-23T10:44:00.000-05:00

Here at My Bellissima we like to give thanks to all of you who inspire us to throw such amazing weddings and events! That is why we send out Thanksgiving Cards instead of holiday ones! The best part about this annual mailer, is that along with giving thanks, we add on a sweet recipe to tie it all together! As you all know, we like to be different and most people send/ receive a ton of Christmas/Holiday cards (some even get lost in the shuffle). Think about it, shouldn't we show our appreciation during the Thanksgiving holiday to truly say thank you for a great year!? Anyway, for the rest of you that didn't receive it in the mail, we still want you to know how much we appreciate you and how thankful we are to have you follow us! This year we are sharing this Peanut Butter Apple Crisp recipe that is to DIE for… so here it is! It is so simple, even the worst baker can make it… and not to mention it tastes AMAZING.

Enjoy this recipe and have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Pretty in Pink & Perfect in Pewter

2010-11-22T16:11:00.000-05:00

Ok, so we have been working on a pink wedding for one of our clients and we have to say, pink is not just for girly girls anymore! We are completely in love! When most people think of pink, they think bubble gum, cotton candy...you know, very whimsical! But those days are long gone with this bright pairing! To us it is flirty and jsut flat out fun! By adding accents of pewter throughout your pink palette, it gives pink a truly grown up feel. There are so many shades of pink which makes it even easier to work into your wedding color scheme. It can be used throughout every season if you pick the right shade. Examples: light pink for spring, bright pink for summer, darker pinks and fuchsia shades for fall and winter. It immediately brightens up any room and is unexpected. Yes, we know that too much pink can become very overwhelming, but that is why pairing it with beautiful pewter, tones it down while still allowing it to shine. Seriously, who doesn’t love pink?

The Latest Craze: Lounging Around At Your Reception...

2010-11-15T15:19:00.000-05:00

Gone are the days of standard round tables topped with conventional centerpieces - traditional reception setup is so yesterday! Now more than ever, we are seeing brides take advantage of adding a lounge to her event. This option makes your guests feel like they’ve been invited into your home! Not only is it a “fresh” idea (and at My Bellissima, you know how we looove forward thinking!), but a lounge serves several practical functions.

First and foremost, it gives attendees a place for intimate conversation in a more comfortable setting than the dinner table. Cozy lounge seating makes it much easier for people to mingle at their leisure and talk away from the DJ’s loud music. It also allows guests a way to cool their heels from the dance floor while simultaneously amping up your décor and style options. Lastly, lounges are a great way to move your guests from one area to another and give them a more luxurious feeling as they do so!

You can rent lounge furniture (i.e. couches, end tables, etc) and drape off sections of your space to create whatever particular type of lounge you would like; as long as it coincides with the overall feeling of the rest of your wedding, we say go for it! Lounge styles can range from retro to modern, antique to contemporary, relaxed to formal or simply themed by color.

Decorative touches to consider when adding a lounge: your lighting options! Some colored uplighting creates a distinct feel for the space and can totally transform a room. You can also tie in your wedding colors and add a splash of color if you choose white furniture and add colored, decorative pillows to them!

Lounges are becoming more and more popular focal points of the reception. They are a décor option that you’ll definitely want to make use of, and we couldn’t love the idea more!

Picture Credit: Grace Ormonde via Alta Moda

New York Times Feature!

2010-11-12T23:49:00.000-05:00

Kara and I had a great day today! We were thrilled to hear that the NY Times not only quoted us, but also started this fabulous article with one of our June 2011 clients, Linda Moschello! She spoke about the incredible after party we are throwing for her and her fiance Nick at the Palace in Somerset NJ! The article is titled "It;s after Midnight? Let's Get This Party Started" focusing on wedding after parties and how they are becoming an essential part of today's wedding plans. They are also talking about doing it up "crazy style" is not only the trend, but in today's wedding world is essential! Check out the article and let us know what you think! Enjoy! http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/14/fashion/weddings/14FIELD.html?_r=2

Something For Every Style!

2010-11-09T15:44:00.000-05:00

The Madison Hotel’s Annual November Bridal Showcase was a huge success! Over 90+ brides and their loved ones showed up to take a look at what local vendors had to offer. The show stealer (in my opinion, Andi), was hands down the four breathe taking "mock" wedding tables in the center of the room, which were designed by our very own Laura Bianco. She was heavily supported from Deana Jarmolowich and Amy Ferro, owners of Cherish The Moment, in Morristown NJ. The exquisite floral arrangements and center pieces were executed by Cathy Dormer of Conroy’s Florist. These theme tables really showed brides-to-be how amazing and different/creative their wedding can be. Each table had its own theme and unique design spin. The Winter table was filled with slate gray, silver and icy hues with an enormous tree like centerpiece dripping with crystals, jewels, and candles. The Whimsical table was inspired by all tones of pink. Making the table stand out with its flirty style, was detailed deep pink linens, raspberry martini's and individual cupcake stands per plate. The Glam table was kicked up a notch filled with various jewel tones, which are very popular this season! Deep blues, purples, a touch of bronze all accented with peacock feathers were used in all aspects, including the tall floral centerpiece. Lastly, the Romantic table was easy on the eyes and absolutely stunning. Candles of different heights went down the center of the table instead of flowers. The color scheme was perfect, shades of gold, champagne and warm cream tones. As you know here at My Bellissima we LOVE to take things that have been done many times before and make them into something fresh and fun. These tables were no different!

Bridal Show This Monday!

2010-11-05T08:34:00.000-04:00

On Monday, November 8th, The Madison Hotel will be hosting its annual bridal show! BUT, the big difference this year and last years is that we are involved to make it have that "WOW" factor it's been missing! With exciting table displays and new "outside the box" vendors, this show is sure to please! For more information see the flyer below or check them out on their website to register! Hope to see you all there!

http://www.madisonhotelweddings.com/showcases.html

Picking The Right Photographer, Tells Your Love Story...

2010-10-25T16:57:00.000-04:00

Your wedding day is without question one of the most important days in your life. Since there is no possible way that you can be omnipresent, making sure that you document the occasion to the best of your ability is crucial! To do this, hiring a great photographer is key. You've spent lots of time (and money) planning your wedding, so you want to be able to not only create memories that last a lifetime, but to have evidence of them so that you can always take a look back!
There aren't any hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a photographer, but this is one aspect of the wedding that you definitely do NOT want to compromise cost on. With that being said, price is not always an indicator of quality, either! You should base your choice partially on the price tag attached, but also several other important points: recognizing if his or her style is in line with the style of your special day, noting if any of the packages offered are a good fit for you, and considering the personality of the professional and if it "clicks" with yours! Also, you want to be as natural looking in your pictures as possible. A photojournalistic style like the pictures displayed in the above image is a way of having pictures taken that actually look like you are in real life! "Posey" pictures are just stiff and un-natural and trust us, you most likely will not like they way you look in them!

In order to determine these things, there are a few important steps you can take. First, utilize the internet to find that "artist eye" that you are looking for. Also, look up reviews on the wedding websites that are out there to see what "real brides" have said about them. Word-of-mouth from trusted family is another way to make sure they are the real deal and /or ask your fabulous wedding planners at My Bellissima after you've brought us on to assist with your planning!

Next, make appointments with ones that stand out so that you can meet them and see some of their work - any reputable photographer will have a portfolio that you can view! Let them know at this point what you like and don't like, what you want, and what you expect. You can also ask any other questions you might have, like what exactly is included in their services, etc.
Bottom line is, anyone can snap a picture at the reception, but not everyone can capture the memories of your special day with the quality that a professional provides. You want to look back on your big day in 20 years and still marvel at the moments, not wish you had taken the time and funds to invest in a better photographer!

Credits: Konrad Kolen, Jennifer Davis, Jamie K and LaCour.

Bronze and Bedazzle for Fall

2010-10-19T09:30:00.000-04:00

This is short, simple and to the point! There is something about bronze that I just can't get enough of in the FALL season! What's even better, adding in even more texture to this rich metallic hue....SEQUINED accents finish it perfectly! From your shoes, to pillows in your lounge, to vases on your tablescapes, this pairing is sure to please! Don't be scared to mix up textures and tones...that is what makes your decor something different, not so cookie cutter and above all, memorable! Paired with the right lighting to set the tone, this color palette will keep everyone talking about your big day for years to come! Enjoy!

MB's New Arrival!!!

2010-10-18T13:20:00.000-04:00

I am proud to announce, that we have a new addition to the My Bellissima family! Our very own Kara Thorson, along with her husband Brian, gave birth to a BEAUTIFUL baby boy, Cooper August Thorson, Sunday October 17^th at 11:39 in the morning. He is the most perfect baby that is not only beautiful, but the true definition of an angel. For most of you who know Kara, she is strong, patient and was born to be a mother. Her nurturing nature has made her an incredible wedding planner which is why she is going to be a fantastic mother! Kara has a way that puts everyone around her at ease (including me of course) she is loving, strong and is truly a remarkable friend, business partner and now proud to say, mother! Congratulations to you and your family and we can’t wait to see what Cooper becomes!

Repeat Blooms!

2010-10-01T16:32:00.000-04:00

We understand and LOVE that your wedding is your BIG day, but why not give your mother something special recognition that she deserves! A new (and very thoughtful) trend that we are seeing among our brides here at My Bellissima, is, give moms something a bit more meaningful… a recreation of their own bouquet from their wedding day! Your mothers’ bouquet should be small and tasteful (a nosegay is a perfect size). They will not only appreciate it, but it will be that much more sentimental to them on your day reflecting on how far they have come! After all, it is because of them that you are getting married in the first place! This is just a small little way to show them how much you appreciate and recognize all they do for you!

Something Borrowed, Something Blue … and Something New!

2010-09-22T14:41:00.000-04:00

What can we say about slate blue… besides it being a fabulous hue, its sooo hot right now! Slate blue can be so many things… classic, crisp, bright, cooling, new, and eye catching. It is fun, fresh and versatile. It can work for every season (depending on what you pair it up with) and every bride. More and more at MB we are seeing brides catch onto this idea and bring their own twist to it. This shade of blue is becoming more and more of a base color with accents thrown into it. It is not an overbearing color where too much of it is a bad thing… more more more!

As the fall approaches faster and faster, think of rustic colors to pair with it… try slate blue with orange shades, navy shades, and coffee tones.

For the colder winter months, think warmer shades … try slate blue with cranberry colors,winter white (think snow fall), plums, and ruby reds.

As the seasons move into spring, brighten up your color scheme… try slate blue with lighter pinks, purples, greens, ivory and even buttery yellow.

For those hot, hot summer months, look for crisp palates… try slate blue with bright purples, cool blues tones, vivid greens (think grass) and blush pinks! Enjoy!

Here’s A Feather For Your Cap

2010-09-21T14:29:00.021-04:00

Adding feathers to your wedding attire is a hot trend. In the above collage, we focused more on white feathers to show a classic, yet modern take on this hot trend. To make a MAJOR statement as you walk down, you can also use peacock feathers on your dress! This is perfect for the bride who wants to stand out in the crowd. Most peacock feathers come in a wide array of colors, with brown, blues and beige tones mixed in. Okay so maybe you don’t want a feathers on your gown… there are other ways to add this trend into your attire. Try accessorizing with feathers! You can add a feathers to a head piece, shoes and even in your bouquet. Don't forget about the men on your wedding day, they can add some feathers in as well to keep up with their blushing bride! Try a feather boutonniere to jazz things up a bit. It also adds color to their attire! Enjoy!

The Palace's King and Queen!

2010-09-17T16:05:00.001-04:00

We always develop a special bond/friendship with our clients…after all, we are planning the most important day of their lives thus far, so getting close is natural…which brings us to one of our current clients, Linda and Nick! We have had the pleasure of working with BOTH of them for different aspect of their wedding! Yesterday we had a blast spending the ENTIRE day vendor shopping with them and had the best time! This fabulous couple just have that “IT” factor that either you have…or don’t! Trust us..they have it! Linda and Nick are a perfect match for each other and with 10 years under their belt so far, (they were friends first…that always turns into the best love stories) they just have that unspoken way of connecting with each other ...it is truly indescribable! I asked them yesterday how they first met…and needless to say, they had us dying over their story (too funny to write)! Here are some pictures just posted up on Jamie K's Blog of their engagement shoot last week in the meat packing district! Stay tuned for their wedding next summer at The Palace in Somerset NJ, it is going to be incredible! They are truly the reigning king and queen of Staten Island! (photo's: Jamie K Photography)

The "Earings" Of Your Tablescape

2010-09-15T16:05:00.002-04:00

Here is a quick and EASY way to spice up your wedding décor by adding color and texture. CHARGER PLATES! Think of charger plates as you would earrings. You can leave the house without them, but let’s be honest… do you really want to? Earings finish your outfit and sometimes add a touch of something unexpected... Well, the same goes with chargers! We at My Bellissima LOVE all kinds of fun and different charger plates as your first layer to your table setting (the best way to get that "wow" factor look is ALWAYS layering your table scape). Don’t be afraid to play with different textures and patterns too, since it is only an accent piece and will not be shown in full for the majority of the wedding. Keeping it simple can also work well with chargers. A beautiful statement centerpiece and simple chargers to match, can make any table look like a million bucks! When doing chargers don’t forget to tell your caterer/venue to leave them out until at least dinner service is over. Here are just a few that we love from Party Rental LTD, enjoy!

Perfect Proposals...

2010-09-13T16:05:00.000-04:00

Listen up fellas, because this blog is for you! At My Bellissima, we can help you to plan everything for your perfect wedding day, but it all has to start with an unforgettable proposal. We have done some fabulous proposals that have been unforgettable and a lot of guys don't even think that an option like this exists! Well, we are here to tell you it does and we are here to help! From romantic roof top dinners, scavenger hunts, hot air balloon rides to even sky writing! Bottom line is, there is nothing like a little professional help to get you guys moving in the right direction and make that “perfect proposal” happen.

The biggest mistake a guy can make is over thinking! Take into account both of your personalities and what you normally like to do as a couple...are you both Romantic? Then by all means romance her! adventurous? Do something daring! But overall, BE YOURSELF!

Here are some great ideas to get the ball rolling:

- Over the PA System where she works: If she is a teacher, you could propose with the whole school listening! After, go to her classroom and give her the diamond with her class cheering you on.

- At the movies or a sporting event: If you are movie buffs or sports fanatics, set a date and then rent ad space for your proposal.

- During the Holidays: Create an "ornament" of the ring box tied to the tree. Or another spin on this is have it written on an ornament.

- With a Special Fortune Cookie or on the dessert tray at your favorite restaurant: Need we say more?

- While playing Scrabble or another one of your favorite board games: Work popping the question into game play!

Bottom line is, get creative and make the moment count as much as possible! It will become a memory that'll last a lifetime; a story that you can pass down for years to come. For more idea's and tips on "Popping the question", feel free to drop us a line!

All 4 Seasons!

2010-09-08T16:01:00.000-04:00

Kara and I were talking about colors we love and tend to gravitate towards and both of us kept coming back to shades of RED! If you were define love as a color, RED would definitely be it in our opinion! You can really use red for all 4 seasons…really you can! Whether its red on its own (like we have done in the above collage, perfect for fall) or pairing it up with other colors or metallic’s to give it a seasonal feel. For winter, go for more of a ruby red tone paired with a plum color and/or a brushed copper. For you spring brides, go for a softer red and pair it up with a pastel pink hue. For a summer splash, try punch red with a turquoise/peacock blue! Any of these combo’s would spice up any wedding décor! Don’t be scared to step outside of the box and be a little daring! After all, you wedding should be memorable for not just you, but for your guests as well! Make them tell their friends how incredible every detail was…cookie cutter weddings are SO 5 years ago! Dare to be different and RED just might be the answer!

THE PERFECT TOAST

2010-09-07T15:54:00.002-04:00

So, your best friend is getting married and he/she has asked you to make a toast on their special day. Don’t panic! Here are a few helpful tips to get you through your speech with ease:

1. Think, Think, Think

We all know that the best toasts are those that are truly heartfelt. Start your speech writing process by going over everything that you would want people to know about the bride or groom. These are things such as best qualities, memories you’ve shared and the moment she/he knew their significant other was “the one”. Then focus on the bride and groom as a couple and what you would want to wish them for their future together. Make sure not to focus your entire speech on just your friend as an individual, but instead as he/she as a couple.

2. Know Your Audience

Your main audience is the bride and groom, not the other 100 plus guests sitting in the room. Make sure not to make them uncomfortable in any way! Keep your speech PG, save embarrassing stories about past relationships or wild nights out for the bachelor or bachelorette party or write it in a personal note for them to look back on. Trust us, they will thank you and so will their guest!

3. Write It Down

Jot down ideas and concepts of what you would like to say, but do not read directly from your paper. Remember this is supposed to be from the heart and should appear to come natural.

4. Length

How long should a wedding toast last? This is where most people go wrong. A toast is only supposed to be 2 - 3 minutes long, not half of the reception! The bride, groom and all of the guests want to get the party started and celebrate after a usually nerve racking day. So don’t take up most of their socializing and dancing time! Brevity is key. Save your lengthy appreciation for the bride or groom for your card to them on their wedding day, they will enjoy it more. For more information on this or other wedding related topics, feel free to drop us an email or comment on this post! Enjoy! Photo Credit: Jennifer Davis Photography

Beige - Not So Boring Afterall!

2010-08-31T09:06:00.000-04:00

So, I get an email from one of our current clients (lol, you know who you are) this past weekend and they were actually sitting at their table at a wedding! It said something along the line about how her and her fiancé were surprised because not only was the wedding in need of some TLC, but she expressed that the bride chose the color pallet of beige...just plain beige. She mention that it blended into everything and it really had no character…in other words, it needed some love from the girls with the pearls! It got me thinking about the fact that beige could actually be STUNNING! So, if you know our style and taste here at MB, you know we can make beige seriously POP! Beige, thrown in with some gold metallic, is in a word, HOT! Check out this collage above and please give us some feedback on if it’s something you like, or not so much! Remember, you don't just have to do a metallic with this, you could throw in any PUNCH color of your choice with it! From, Pinks, to Blues, Greens, to Purples...even warm chocolate brown is the perfect combination for this "not so boring" color! Check the boxes below if you like it, love it or just have to have it!
Enjoy!

Well, Orange-You the Perfect Couple!

2010-08-30T08:53:00.000-04:00

We love this kind of perfect wedding day blog post! On August 7th we helped celebrated the nuptials of Krista and Karl, two Penn State Alums tying the knot in front of 160 family members and friends. Krista wore a Grecian-inspired Melissa Sweet gown that was simple and tasteful. Her bridesmaids preceded her down the aisle in slate gray Priscilla of Boston chiffon gowns with tangerine accent jewelry, to match the rest of the wedding decor! All of the ladies wore gladiator sandals to express the relaxed feel of the day overall. The service, that was held at the First Presbyterian Church in Sparta, NJ was short and sweet, and afterward a Rolls-Royce whisked the newlyweds to the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park for pictures and their reception!

A cocktail hour of passed hors d'ovures and buffet began promptly at 6 that all of the guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy. They were then escorted down into the beautifully transformed room where the party was to be held! Slate grey linens with tangerine runners adorned the tables, which were topped with gray river rocks and water-filled vases containing floating candles and exotic flowers. Each table was named after local bars in the Penn State area to honor how the bride and groom spent their time in college together - a very personalized and unique touch! A video montage played before Krista and Karl entered the room and impressed the attendees with their choreographed first dance to "True Companion." Following this dance was the father-daughter and mother-son dances, along with speeches given by the two best men and maid of honor that were truly heartwarming. The parting gift for the guests was a chocolate-covered fortune cookie in a small Chinese-box, with the message "Fortunate to have found each other!" printed on the front. We at My Bellissima felt fortunate to be apart of such an amazing day! Big thanks to the unbelieveable Jamie K, owner of Jamie K Photography who shot these incredible images for them and us for that matter! Congratulations to Krista and Karl, we wish you many years of happiness and health!!!

Adding that POP!

2010-08-28T08:43:00.001-04:00

Traditional dresses can be made into something eye catching and out of the ordinary, by adding colored beads, flowers, sashes and stitching. If you’re looking for something even more extravagant try a full color gown to make a statement!

If you’re like myself however and love the traditional all white or ivory look, there are subtle ways to add color to yourself on your special day. Try doing bright beautiful nails, or even going with a bold lip...come on its your wedding, you should look like the "best version of yourself" on that day..step outside the box and go for something other than a beige/pink like lip color!

Colored feathers and brooch type hair pieces are another way to add color through your accessories... even bold flowers for your hair can add some pop! These can be small or large depending on your personal style and wedding theme ...

Now if many of you are avide readers of our blog, you know how we at My Bellissima love to talk about color...so we of course put some seasonal color ideas together below! Depending on the time of the year you can play around with different color pallates and always let us know if you have questions about color combo's. We can put together a pallet to show you if it would work!

Winter: Deep, rich, jewel tones are always perfect for those cold winter months. Try ruby reds, sapphire blues and plum colors, to heat up your winter wedding. Throwing in a metallic, like a brushed gold, finishes any winter color combo.

Spring: You don't have to go Easter pastels, try tone on tone green (exp: grass and moss) or tone on tone orange (tangerine and mango look fabulous together) and of course, throw in a metallic like champagne instead of ivory into the mix. Very fresh and spring like!

Summer: Think bold and bright..summer colors can really be anything you want! From raspberry pinks to tonal blues (think aqua and cobalt). Again, don't be afraid to throw in a metallic color like a brushed silver to keep your colors fresh with contrast!

Fall: True autumn colors such as warm yellows tones and true reds (think butternut and merlot red) are always perfect for this time of year. And of course, again, we must say, throwing in copper and gold metallic’s are a perfect pairing for any autumn combo!

FUNKY CAKES WITH GEOMETRIC SHAPES

2010-08-24T16:09:00.004-04:00

Geometric decorations can transform a contemporary wedding cake into something eye catching and out-of-the-box. Just think of your cake as another way to express your personal style as a couple! Add color and texture with geometric shapes and patterns. Think circles, squares, rectangles and diamonds!

Looking beyond even the exterior cake design, you can make the actual shape of your cake more interesting. Try shaped tiers such as hexagons or squares instead of circular designs. Do not be afraid to experiment with different patterns and shapes!
Imagine each tier of your cake with a different pattern, something totally different and out of the ordinary, but beautiful all together. The key with doing this is to really make sure that the color scheme of the cake works well together.
Think of themed cakes like the “Mad Hatter” cake. Totally outrageous designs, colors and textures can add extra detail and surprise to your wedding day. Again, don’t be afraid of color because it can be your best friend when designing your wedding cake.
Try color schemes like orange, aqua, yellow, fuchsia, purple, and even (if you’re brave enough) lime green!
Also, mixing colors with black and white creates an eye catching cake. The great part of mixing colors with black and white is that you can pick your favorite color to be showcased.
For those of you who don't want an over the top colorful cake but still want to make it stand out try adding dimension and texture with white on white geometrics. This is also a totally beautiful look!

My Bellissima and David Tutera...

2010-08-17T11:19:00.002-04:00

So, I jumped into the job head first! Not only did I attend my first wedding, but Laura and I were also able to attend an event with wedding planner superstar, DAVID TUTERA! This past Tues, August 10th, NJ Bride Magazine hosted a cover signing at Morristown bridal boutique ,I Do,I Do. It was gorgeous! From the stores décor, to the magnificent flowers, to the food. BIG congrats to Leia and Patricia, the store’s owners! As I’m sure you all know, David Tutera, the host of WE TVs hit show, My Fair Wedding (which I personally love) so naturally we were so excited to meet him! Despite the huge line of brides (that was wrapped around the corner of the building), Laura and I met David and got to speak with him and even network a bit! Laura spoke to him about My Bellissima of course and and I was able to get his autograph which made my week! I decided that the best way to get a good place in line would be to make friends with someone at the front and simply stand with them, and it worked. Laura and I got a spot right in the front =) David was just as nice … if not more … then he comes off on his show. He was so gracious and thankful to be there and have such a large turnout.

Not only were we able to socialize with local vendors and munch on tasty appetizers, but we were also able to view David’s new bridal collection up close and personal. The collection is called David Tutera by Faviana and let me just tell you, I fell IN LOVE with one of the dresses! Take a look at the collection and see what you think http://www.davidtuterabyfaviana.com/

Look forward to reading more blogs from me and enjoy the day! ~ Andi!

PS- David Tutera LOVED the necklace I was wearing! He was touching it, asking questions and looking at all of the details on it =) Guess I got his approval… I will DEFINITELY be wearing it more often. AND he loved My Bellissima’s business card! He thought is was such a creative size and has such a fabulous look... It was truly a great night for all of us at MB!

Our Newest Bella Girl!

2010-08-16T15:50:00.003-04:00

Hey Everyone! My name is Andi, Laura and Kara’s new assistant and a Bella Girl in training! I just graduated from The University of Scranton in May (still so strange to be done) and I have always wanted to be an Event Planner =) I grew up locally in Florham Park so working for My Bellissima is amazing because I am already familiar with specific locations and vendors that they deal with. In the past 2 weeks that I have been a part of this company I have already gotten to experience great things. Congrats to Krista and Karl, whose wedding I worked at … just 5 days into the job! … it was amazing and so beautiful!

The reason that I have always wanted to be an event planner, especially weddings, is because I don’t think that there is a better feeling than making someone’s dream day come true before their eyes. All of the hard work and planning that goes into that one special day is all worth it when the bride and groom see their day come to life. This is a day that they will remember for the rest of their life and it is so fun to be a part of that. I can’t wait to learn more from Laura and Kara (and all of the Bella Girls)!

Grey Is The New....

2010-08-06T12:11:00.002-04:00

So, Kara and I have an incredible wedding Saturday (early congrats to Krista and Karl) and it always seems that whatever wedding we have coming up, not only takes over the office, but, also takes over our creative minds! We LOVE their combo (Slate Grey and Tangerine) for the summer time! Since, slate is the base of Krista and Karl’s palette and I have to tell you, we are all about the GREY tones over here at MB. Think about it, you can change up grey tones for any/all seasons.

Winter: Grey and deep blue tones (think midnight …jaw dropping)

Spring: Grey and softer green tones (think mint…stunning)

Summer: Grey and warm yellow tones (think butter…YUM)

Fall: Grey and cool purple tones (think Plum… delicious)

For a while brown was the new black. Well, we have all come to the conclusion that grey is the new, EVERYTHING! Even going all grey, lighter grey mixed with darker shades, is a true classic statement that would be unforgettable! Enjoy!

Featured in Brides NJ

2010-08-02T12:11:00.002-04:00

We are so excited to be featured in the current issue of Brides New Jersey magazine! We gave our insite on DJ and Band entertainment for your big day. If you are looking for that true NYC club vibe, we recommended Paul Anthony Entertainment. Paul is wonderful to work with and can really read into his clients on what they want/desire. They are vibrant and fresh and keep you dancing all night long! For our live concert feel for a band, The Rhythm Shop is top notch! This 16 piece band is unbelievable and play any/every genre of music you can think of. David is the band leader for this incredible group and they are fantastic at motivating the crowd and switching up their playlists to keep your guest begging for more! The Rhythm Shop is by far a huge fav of ours! Big thanks to Kim Forrest at Brides magazine for featuring us in the spot! Go grab your copy on newstands today!

Fig, Bronze and Beyond!

2010-07-28T15:03:00.002-04:00

Some of the favorite blogs we do are hands down, color pallets! This one is fab if I say so myself. Seriously, we can’t get enough of this color combo…absolutely PERFECT for fall. Fig and Bronze are the it colors of the season. They are showing up on fashion runways all over the place. This is a combo that you can completely wear over and over again and still love it as much as the first time you put it on. From fig colored shoes, to bronze pearls for you or your girls, you can make it your own in any capacity! And if you know Kara and I, we are OBSESSED with adding in a third color for more texture and dimension. A sage green or an espresso brown to add more richness or champagne ivory or pale rose to lighten it up just to name a few. Enjoy!

A Must To Do...

2010-07-12T16:39:00.003-04:00

Lately you may have noticed that it has become more commonplace for a couple to have an engagement photo shoot. Though some might argue that this is an unnecessary "extra," we at My Bellissima think it's a wonderful opportunity for the newlyweds-to-be as well as their photographer! Having a shoot before the wedding helps the client become more comfortable in front of the camera, so when the actual "big day" arrives and nerves/stress levels are high, they are relaxed and prepared for their wedding pictures.

The location of the engagement photos is also a great way for the guests of the wedding to get to know about the couple and their history more in depth. A lot of our clients choose a venue that has something to do with their relationship (like the place they first met or a spot that holds special significance to them). Furthermore, skilled photographers make use of funky backgrounds, like the ones you can see here by one of our fave photographers, Jamie K! She uses intricate lighting and fun, fresh locales to showcase how great the couple looks both individually and more importantly - together!
So when it comes down to it, it really isn't even a question of if you should have an engagement shoot but where and when! It's a great investment to capture your love on camera before your wedding!
The photo's above are a little "shout out" to our upcoming August 7th wedding with Krista and Karl who just did their shoot with Jamie. They are getting married at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park. They had a blast at their shoot and it shows! Early congrats to you guys, we adore you!

Hatch My House!

2010-07-05T10:08:00.001-04:00

Let’s face it – a lot of couples today live together before they tie the knot. Because of this, they already have a lot of the household essentials that a bride and groom would receive as wedding gifts (i.e. toaster, microwave, bedding, etc). Since we all know what a faux pas it is to ask for monetary gifts, there has to be an alternative for the happy couple to be able to get something they really need. This is where “Hatch My House,” http://www.hatchmyhouse.com/ the newest online gift and home wedding registry, comes in!

By using this site, guests have the opportunity to put money towards a house or home improvements for the newlyweds. The couple simply has to enter information about their plans and/or can design a virtual home. They can pick the setting of the house (beach, city, suburbs), style of the dwelling (condo, colonial, brownstone), and even the color! Once it’s set up, all that needs to be done is to link the registry to your bank account via PayPal and voila! Your attendees can even pick specific parts of the house on either the exterior or interior that they would like to contribute to. What an innovative way to gift!

City Chic!

2010-06-25T11:43:00.002-04:00

Talk about a STUNNING wedding and we are not just talking about this incredible couple, the wedding itself was the perfect combination of city chic thrown in with a true sense of romance! We had the privilege of working with this long time couple, John and Lauren on their Manhattan wedding held in Battery Gardens. This couple is very near and dear to Kara, since they are close friends to her and her husband Brian! We assisted her in her planning process and we have to say, this wedding was a complete stunner! Lauren is downright beautiful on the daily, but on her wedding day, she simply glowed! Her fantastic photo’s are from fab photographer extraordinaire, Konrad Kolen who not only captured the day’s beauty, but was able to really photograph their love and passion for one another! Big congrats to Lauren and John and thank you for letting us be a part of your incredible love! Enjoy!

What Color Are You...

2010-06-24T12:44:00.000-04:00

Choosing the colors for your wedding may seem like one of the most daunting tasks of the entire event because they touch every element and affect each aspect of the day. To help discern the colors that suit you best, we have compiled a list of what each color is associated with so that you can narrow down the type of feeling you are hoping to evoke.

White signifies purity, consecration, meditation, divination, healing, peace, and spiritual strength. It is associated with light, goodness, innocence, and purity. It is also considered to be the color of perfection. Usually white has a positive connotation and can represent a successful beginning. Those with the astrological sign of Cancer are often drawn to white.

Red is a very emotionally intense color that usually indicates passion, desire, and love. It is also used to denote courage, strength, energy, health, power, determination, vigor, and lust. The astrological sign of Scorpio is associated with red most often and the color itself stimulates a person physically by increasing heart and respiration rate.

Orange combines the energy of red with the happiness of yellow. It represents stimulation, kindness, enthusiasm, fascination, creativity, success, encouragement, and joy. Since it is a hot color it gives the sensation of heat but not as aggressively as the color red. It stimulates mental activity and appetite, and is symbolic of strength and endurance.

Yellow often evokes pleasant, cheerful, and optimistic feelings. It is an attention-getting color most commonly associated with confidence, knowledge, charm, joy, and comfort as it produces a warming effect. The hue complements Gemini’s and Leo’s the most and offers the promise of a positive future.

Green is the color of nature, signifying growth, harmony, hope, fertility, freshness, and luck. Green corresponds strongly with individuals who are Taurus, as well as with the idea of safety. It is said to have great healing power as it is the most restful color to the human eye.

Blue is the overwhelming “favorite color.” It symbolizes trust, commitment, tranquility, loyalty, wisdom, truth, devotion, and honor. It is considered relaxing, calming, and soothing since it is the color of the sky and sea. Libra and Sagittarius are drawn to blue.

Purple combines the stability of blue with the energy of red and is associated with royalty. It symbolizes luxury, power, ambition, mystery, nobility, and magic. It conveys wealth and extravagance. Sagittarius also well-suited with purple.

Black is a mysterious color associated with formality and power. Though it usually has a negative connotation is denotes authority and strength, and is considered a very elegant and prestigious color. It gives the feeling of perspective and depth, and works well for Scorpio and Capricorns.

Brown signifies the Earth, grounding, reliability, and concentration. The astrological sign it is associated with is Capricorn. It offers a sense of orderliness and wholesomeness to those who view it.

Gold is associated with a conscious mind, attracting happiness, and acitivity. Leos are matched with the color Gold. It also has the connotation of wealth and provides a male energy, as well as financial wisdom and intelligence.

Silver conversely has a female energy and signifies values, the unconscious mind, and purity. Gemini are well-matched with silver.

Color combinations are even more incredible to put togehter, but for now, let us know, what color represents you?!

Laura’s Wedding Continues to Take the Cake!

2010-06-22T14:32:00.007-04:00

Laura and Kara had been carefully planning and consulting concerning her own March 2010 wedding for months on end. Obviously all of her hard work and foresight paid off, not just because it was an amazing day, but also because Laura has just been featured on Glamour Magazines Wedding Blog! The article, entitled “What a Wedding Planner’s Wedding Looks Like” highlights the choices that Laura had made for her own big day and the reasons behind them. In addition to the article, a stunning assortment of photos from the wedding are included to highlight the elegance and ambiance of the event.

Outlined in the piece are the precautions that Laura took for the inclement weather that she and her guests encountered, as well as the importance of continuity of a bridal theme in all aspects of the wedding and reception. It also extolled they way in which Laura kept her guests in mind by providing little “extras,” such as comfortable flip-flops for dancing. Lastly, the work mentioned the beauty and practicality of the planner-bride’s floral arrangements and centerpieces. We could not be more happy and proud of you Laura! Congratulations!

Rustic Romance

2010-06-21T14:27:00.000-04:00

It was another Bellissima wedding on June 12, 2010! One of our very own Bella Girls, Tammy, was finally getting married to her love, Dan, and starting a life with him and his two young sons. The event was held at the Raritan Inn, a charming bed and breakfast located in Califon, NJ. Since the entire day was scheduled to take place outside, we were crossing our fingers for beautiful weather - and luckily, the day turned out to be gorgeous!

The ceremony was absolutely stunning (short and sweet too)! Behind the bed and breakfast a nature path led to the grassy clearing overlooking a small creek where Tammy and Dan exchanged their own personal vows. As sunlight streamed through the trees overhead, the two became a married couple. Afterwards, the entire congregation made its way back to the tent where passed hors d’ovures were awaiting them! The reception was adorned with lighted candles and orange farm cut flowers in mason jars, giving the wedding more of a “country feel” that was perfectly appropriate for the bride and groom. To continue with the theme, a bbq company served all sorts of grilled delights in the barn behind the Inn that guests thoroughly enjoy as well! Following dinner, a small cover band played some popular hits while guests danced, and the bride’s sister offered a heartwarming champagne toast. Dessert was comprised of various cupcakes (all homemade by the brides mother!) and the dancing/enjoyment of the day continued as the sun set.

It was a beautiful day celebrating a wonderful couple. We were so pleased to offer our assistance to such an amazing bride and her beau! Many years of happiness Tammy and Dan, we love you!

Jennifer + Brian Teaser

2010-06-17T13:10:00.005-04:00

Jennifer + Brian Teaser from Jason Groupp on Vimeo.

(Don't forget to mute the background music player below before watching)

Special thanks to Chris Bruno from Jason Groupp who shot this incredible teaser for Jen and Brians Wedding. Enjoy!