Celebrity Inspired Bridal Hair Styles: Hilary Duff UpDo

04/24/2013 by Leave a Comment

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I have to say that I am a huge fan of a high impact bun (especially as I wore a similar hairstyle for my own wedding not long ago)! This hair trend featured here on singer/actress Hilary Duff made a great style statement on her wedding day as well as other brides pictured above. Hilary’s hair style seems to be more of a top “knot” bun that has been pre-teased, then neatly combed, and pinned (that’s at least what it looks like from the picture).

LaurenEgkanWedding www.InspireTheBride.com
Here I am on my wedding day (almost 4 years ago) with a somewhat similar hair style. My updo was created with an initial high ponytail with pinned curls to create the bun. Hair by Stylist, Alissa Grossi of Ashtin Salon in Corona Del Mar, CA (Orange County Salon). Dress by RIVINI, Hair Accessory Crystal Flowers, Earrings, and Veil are all by Erin Cole (her and her team at ErinCole in Costa Mesa were amazing and so personable), Necklace from TheWhiteDress, and my bracelet was my “something borrowed”.

A couple of the bun hair styles (in picture collage above) seem to be sporting a more simple version of the bun by using what some call a “sock bun”. It’s recently become quite popular as its a quick and easy bun to achieve on your own and does a great job of staying more secure. Here’s what the “sock buns” actually look like (the one on the left is a pre-made sock bun from H&M and the one on the right was homemade by cutting and rolling a thick black sock – which is why they call it a “sock bun”:
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Below I am wearing the same sock bun from H&M in my hair:
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No matter which way you pull off the high top bun, whether it be with straight up ponytail and bobby pins or if you go the quicker route by using a sock bun, it is a classic yet current hair style that is elegant and great for Brides and or Bridesmaids!

Filed Under: beauty, Celebrity, Celebrity_Weddings

Inspireation Board: Timeless Pearl Wedding and Bridal Shower Theme

04/15/2013 by Leave a Comment

Pearl Inspired Wedding Theme
When creating an Inspiration Board I try to combine images and styles I love, those I think you as my readers will love, those that are unique, and most of all those that are timeless… This is one of those special timeless pieces! There’s something very elegant and rich about pearls; let’s face it they’ve been a statement piece for ages and I’m pretty sure they will continue to~

This Pearl Themed Inspiration Board is versatile as it could be incorporated in a Wedding, Bridal Shower, Birthday Party, and even Baby Showers!

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I love the vintage touches featured in this beautiful invitation design by Aesthetic Journeys and they’re only $2 each invite! This specific invitation was made for a Bachelorette Party, but like I previously mentioned can also be adjusted for a Bridal Shower.
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This chiffon cocktail dress by EliseRyan is fun and flirty (perfect for Bridal Shower, Birthday, Rehearsal Dinner, or Bachelorette Party)

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This stunning multi-strand pearl crystal bracelet by Megan Dunn Jewellery Designs is also a piece that can be warn on multiple occasion and adds an elegant touch to any ensemble.

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I can’t stop “oooing” and “ahhhing” at this table scape, it’s simply stunning! The napkin detailing is what stood out to me most as it can easily be achieved with any formal linen and by using either a pearl napkin ring or pearl strands.

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This pearl candle centerpiece is perfect for cocktail tables. It’s very affordable and easy to make. Simply use a square (or any shaped vase for that matter) glass vase, fill with pearlized beads and water, and top with a floating candle.

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I actually have this (almost exact) “L” shaped decor piece but in a smaller scale. I purchased it from Michael’s Craft Store a few years ago and hung it with ribbon to decorate the back of a chair (it was darling)!

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I came across a fab recipe for Pink Lemonade Cupcakes from YourHomeBasedMom that sound AMAZING! This recipe can be used exactly as listed below, simply top cupcakes off with edible pearls and enjoy~

Cupcake

    • 1 box white cake mix (Duncan Hines) and items needed for cake mix
    • 1 tsp lemon zest
    • 2 tsp vanilla extract
    • 3 Tbsp sweetened pink lemonade drink powder
Frosting
  • 1 lb. powdered sugar
  • 3-5 Tbsp frozen pink lemonade concentrate, thawed
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1/2 C butter,softened

Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees
    • Line pan with cupcake liners
    • Mix cake batter according to directions.
    • Add in lemon zest, vanilla and lemonade powder. ]
    • Pour batter into cupcake liners. Bake according to directions on cake box. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
    • Let cool.
Frosting
  • Beat butter in mixer on medium high for 2-3 minutes or until pale and creamy. Reduce speed to medium and add sugar, 1/2 cup at a time. Beat well after each addition increasing speed to high after all sugar is added. Add in vanilla and lemonade concentrate until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Beat until buttercream is smooth.
  • Cake recipe from Paula Deen
Filed Under: bachelorette, Baking, Budget Bride, Budget_Bride, decor, Inspiration Board, parties, PINK, Yummy_Recipes

“Georgia Peach” Inspired Bridal Shower

04/12/2013 by Leave a Comment

InspireTheBride.com GeorgiaPeach Shower
There’s a sweet simplicity to the invitation by PaperSnaps (featured right in the above Inspiration Board) that I love so much that clearly screams “Georgia Peach”! I picture this Bridal Shower being outdoors in a great open space, with either long tables or picnic tables to set the perfect tone. Sunshine, pretty umbrellas, and Sunday dresses, and big hats are just a few details I imagine would be perfect for a Sunday Georgia Peach Bridal Shower ;) . Speaking of big hats… I love love love this stunning big summer hat by PrestonAndOlivia as it’s such a statement piece, versatile, and of course it matches our color palette! This summer hat would look great as an accessory to this perfect dress for the Bride to Be…

dress
I always love when Bride’s to be wear either white or ivory to their Bridal Shower as it makes them stand out among their guests. This piece from LYST is very fun, flirty, playful, and classy all in one!

Enjoy these creative ideas and recipes below to help compliment your beautiful Georgia Peach Bridal Shower…

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Frozen Beach Bellini Recipe
Blend the following ingredients, then enjoy:

  • 6 oz champagne
  • 1 oz peach schnapps
  • 1 can frozen Bacardi peach daiquiri mix
  • ice

 

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Grilled Prosciutto Peach Salad Recipe
We were so inspired by this fab recipe from the cooking blog  AgainstAllGrain and hope you do too. Check out her blog for more great foodie recipes!

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 2 ripe yellow peaches, pitted and cut into 12 slices
  • 12 thin slices of prosciutto
  • 6 cups baby arugula
  • 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • salt and pepper

Directions:
Preheat a grill to medium heat. Wrap each peach slice with a thin slice of prosciutto. Grill the peaches over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the prosciutto is crisp and peaches are slightly tender. Toss the arugula with the almonds, olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper. Serve the grilled peaches over the dressed arugula, Enjoy!

 

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Peach Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Peach Frosting Recipe
I just loved this creative recipe from one of my favorite blogs JustSweet&Simple, thought I’d share it and introduce you to another great blog. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have!

Batter Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 c. very finely diced peaches
  • 3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup pureed fresh peach
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of butter, softened
  • 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 c. very finely diced peaches
  • 1/3 c pureed peach
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3-5 cups of confectioners sugar

Directions:
Mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large measuring cup or bowl, mix together buttermilk, peach puree and vanilla extract. Set aside until needed.Using an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until pale, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in peaches.
Mix in flour mixture in three batches, alternating with two batches of buttermilk mixture. Mix until just combined, scraping down bowl as needed. Scoop batter into lined cupcake tins.

Bake at 350′ F, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean, about 21 to 24 minutes. Allow cupcakes to cool in tins for 10 minutes, and then remove cupcakes and place them on a cooling rack. Makes about 24-28 cupcakes.

To make frosting: In a large mixing bowl, mix butter until it is softened and uniform. Add cream cheese and beat together until it is uniform. Add vanilla extract and mix. Add peaches and peach puree and mix. Add 3 cups of sugar to the mixture and mix. Add more sugar if necessary. Mix again until mixture is creamy and spreadable. Add more sugar if necessary.

Filed Under: Bridal Shower, bridal_shower, Bridal_Showers, Inspiration Board, invitations, orange, Yummy_Recipes

Celebrity Inspired Wedding Hair Styles: Julianne Hough

04/09/2013 by Leave a Comment

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So many of us “ooh and aah” at the stunning celebrities that strut their style down televised Red Carpet events, especially those like The Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, SAG Awards, Emmy Awards, and more! We notice impeccable fashions of ball gowns (inspiration for a blog post to come), elegant clutch hand bags, the jewels (we all love the BLING), shoes, and THE HAIR!! Julianne Hough is one of those classic celebrities that is almost always named on the “Best Dressed List” and one of the reasons she always lands on that fab list is her fabulous hair… She sure has one great Professional Stylist for her over all look. Many of you may most recognize Julianne from Dancing with the Stars, now days she’s known for her appearances on the big screen, as well as her “past” relationship with Ryan Seacrest (no I don’t know them personally, but I was sad to hear of their split). Nevertheless, Hough seems to continue to shine and keep us all impressed by her stunning hair styles!

The hair style I featured that Julianne sporting here incorporates many recent trends that I love (wish we had a back view of her hair, but here is what I am guessing it consists of), a side swept low bun with romantic large curls (which is very similar to the real life bridal hair style on the right). If you are aiming for this look on your wedding day, you can choose whichever side to part your hair that bests compliments your face shape. It’s also a style that calls for some statement jewelry (especially earrings)!

If your looking for a beautiful and timeless hairstyle to sport on your BIG DAY, this is  great look that is sure to impress.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

$ave Big at Friar Tux Shop!

03/28/2013 by Leave a Comment

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We’re always thrilled to share a great with our readers as we know things can really start to add up quickly when planning your wedding… Receive a huge deal on Tux/Suit Rentals from any Friar Tux Shop (discount brought to you by The Royal Engagement). See details below.

If anyone you know is in need of a group tux rental, Share this discount to FRIAR TUX SHOP:
**RECEIVE $75 VISA GIFT CARD (free groom’s tux + $30 OFF pkg savings for all men in wedding party (*groups of 5 or more only)” IN STORE Promo Code: A3405 and/or ONLINE Promo Code: W3409 brought to you by TheRoyalEngagement**

Filed Under: Budget Bride, Budget_Bride, giveaways, groom, vendors

Celebrity Inspired Bridal Hair Styles: Jessica Alba

03/28/2013 by 1 Comment

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So many of us “ooh and aah” at the stunning celebrities that strut their style down televised Red Carpet events, especially those like The Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, SAG Awards, Emmy Awards, and more! We notice impeccable fashions of ball gowns (inspiration for a blog post to come), elegant clutch hand bags, the jewels (we all love the BLING), shoes, and THE HAIR!! Jessica Alba is one of those classic celebrities that is almost always named on the “Best Dressed List” and one of the reasons she always lands on that fab list is her fabulous hair… She sure has one great Professional Stylist for her over all look and her hair never seems to let us viewers down.

The hair style I featured Alba sporting here incorporates many recent trends that I love, a Grecian Braid and a Low Bun. 1. You can see that this Bride is sporting a Dutch Braid that the braid wraps over/across the crown (image credit) 2. The second Bride’s hair style is most similar to Alba’s featured picture, where there are two separate braids that begin at a center part of the hair and each are pulled back and fastened into a low curled bun (image credit) 3. The third hair style features a Bride with a side part (swooped side bangs), a dutch braid that begins behind the bangs, also features a teased pomp behind the braid for height, and is all tied together into a low basic bun (image credit). 4. The final Bride’s hair style is also similar to Jessica Alba’s but incorporated a flower hair piece with more of a “messy” low bun.

If your looking for a beautiful UpDo hair style that’s not only secure but on trend to wear on your BIG Day, I hope this one has inspired you… Or at least help you see that you two can look like a celebrity on your wedding day~

Filed Under: beauty, Celebrity_Weddings

Bridal Shower and Wedding Gift Ideas from Anthropologie

03/27/2013 by Leave a Comment

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One of my absolute favorite stores is Anthropologie and I’m a sucker for spending way too much time browsing through each of their departments and fabulous displays (good thing most of their locations tend to have a sofa inside for all guys that get dragged in there)! Not only do I love the clothes they sell, but their home department is fabulous for finding just the right bridal shower or wedding gift. You’ll want to check out their online store once you send off that “yes” RSVP card. Here are some of my recent favorites (can you tell I’m a fan of turquoise?), hope they inspire you!

1. This Blue Tea and Crumpets Apron $32 is so adorable, not to mention it’s perfect for the Bride to surprise her new Mr. after the wedding (think of the apron as also a lingerie item when paired solely with heels;) 2. The Teal Blue First Eats Kitchen Dishtowel, Strawberries & Blooms $34 is just too cute to pass up 3. I personally have this stunning Large Fleur De Lys Platter $38 and it comes in handy quite often when entertaining 4. My Husband and I have a medium size dog who is more like our “baby” for right now, so I naturally fell for this darling Scottie Shadow Potholders $14 5. We also received these fabulous Large Monogrammed Mugs $6 for Christmas last year and they’re our “GoTo” for coffee!

Filed Under: Aqua, Bridal Shower, gifts