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Contents
georges hobeika
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RESORT & EVENING WEAR European designs that will inspire you
BRIDAL FASHION Luxurious, beautiful and breathtaking designs
ACCESSORIES Classic, edgy and new looks from designer brands
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beauty
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REAL WEDDINGS
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Stephanie Klasse gives us her expertise on wedding day beauty
Royal weddings, gorgeous brides and everything you need to know to be inspired by
special feature coco rocha weds Supermodel inspiration for planning your wedding in a fairy tale castle
Welcome to the issue
In the European Influence Edition we combined elegant and classic details that will inspire you. fine art photography that will take you to a place you want to visit, From Italian vinyards to french castles in the country. European traditions are also wonderful to incorporate into your wedding plans as well as the details that matter the most. Paris fashion week is always the highlight of the fashion industry where you will see the best in fashion.
RebeccaMarie
Highlights 28 46 88 120 128 158
PARIS FASHION WEEK PRINCESS AND PRINCE CHARMING CHATEAU DE CHALLAIN SARAH HAYWOOD CELEBRITY PLANNER ROYAL WEDDING STYLISH & TRADITIONAL PRE WEDDING
The
Cast
RebeccaMarie as Editor In Chief Ruth Shilling as Managing Editor Amy Rivers as Marketing Director and Writer Stephanie Klasse, Makeup Artist, as Beauty editor Maureen Mik a as Magazine Stylist Heather Honstein as Fashion Writer
Julia Lebaron Butler as Writer Season Hurd as Guest Writer from A Color ado Coutship Blog Teal Young as Writer
RALPH & RUSSO 9
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Claridge Dot Blue $55
Black Satin Solid $55
Mens Asteroid Teal Slimfit tuxedo seperates
vintage seersucker slimfit jacket
Red Solid $55
Mens SlimFit Double Face Light Grey Sport Coat
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Summit Navy Chalkstripe Modern Fit Suit
Combatant Gentleman www.combatgent.com
Navy Slim Fit Shawl Collar Tuxedo
Black Patent Leather Oxford Dress Shoe $65
Black Slim Fit Notch Lapel Tuxedo
Black Leather Double Monk Strap $70
Brown Cap Toe Lace Up Oxford $65
Leanne Marshall NYFW
Georges Chakra at Paris Fashion Week with the Spring Summer 2016 collection www.georgeschakra.com
Ida Sjostedt Couture
Floral and sheer elements add to Ida Sjostedt Couture ‘Isabel’ floor length dress Photography by Emma Svensson 21
Miriam by Ida Sjostedt Photography by Emma Svensson
‘Alison’ Black Dress with White Lace Cuffs
‘Alex’ Jumpsuit in Red
Beaded Collar Necklace
‘Loulou’ Sheer Jacket
Ida Sjostedt www.idasjostedt.com
‘Rianne’ Gray Dress with Gold Belt and Strap Accents 23
GEORGES HOBEIKA
WWW.GEORGESHOBEIKA.COM
PARIS FASHION WEEK Teal Young
Designers of 2015-16 ready-to-wear Paris Fashion Week played with opposing ideas throughout the show. Balmain’s ever-sexy silhouettes were surprisingly conservative. Alexander McQueen’s soft, virginal pinks and nudes were paired with edgy blacks and siren reds. Dior paired classic silhouettes with abstract, artsy prints, and Guo Pei made traditional Chinese textiles modern.
defied the many designers that alluded to ‘80s fashion this season by creating sleek, futuristic silhouettes with a soft edge. Stephane Rolland added graphic squares and color blocking to his characteristic architectural style, while Saint Laurent was among the edgiest designers on the runway, sending out an 80s vibe with a nod to rock n’ roll.
Design motifs like military jackets, patchwork, vinyl, and furs galore were common threads among many of the collections. Even leopard print and grommets had a big presence on the runway, along with vision-addling black and white prints. Balmain made the most of the 80s color trend by featuring the secondary colors in jewel tones— amethyst purple, garnet orange, and emerald green. Tony Ward, Vionnet, Ralph and Russo, Zuhair Murad and many other Paris Fashion Week perennials pushed the fall color envelope in the other direction by playing with pastels and brights. On the other hand, some of the most ubiquitous names in the fashion world—Chanel and Calvin Klein, among others—experimented with the subtlety of largely neutral color palettes. Vionnet
All told, 2015-16 was a runway rich with cultural references—from the Victorian era to the 40s and all the way to the 80s. The history of American design was discernible in both textiles and silhouettes. References to styles from countries like Russia and China made visible the globalization of fashion, a phenomenon which has propelled the industry for centuries, yet has been checked by ethnocentric design aesthetics. The growing affinity for diversity in the fashion world is changing what comes down the runway with rapid speed and heralding the birth of designs like we’ve never seen before. (From left to right: Guo Pei, Zuhair Murad, Stephane Rolland, Georges Chakra, Ralph & Russo
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Provence An Editorial wedding by Le Secret d’Audrey
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Photography by Le Secret d’Audrey Venue at the Chateau Margui Event Planning by La Fabrique A Reves Wedding Dress by Galia Lahav Floral Design by L’art Qui Pousse Hair & Makeup by David Chavey
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Nancy Vuu gowns Blair Nadeau Millinery Featuring Matilda Crown, Astrid, Alexia and Amalia Ivanka Trump Cara black pump, Park Ballet silver, Park Ballet strap silver
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Johanna is wearing a royal blue and purple sequin Nancy Vuu dress, Ivanka Trump Cara Pumps & Blair Nadeau ‘Alexia’ crown.
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Maddie is wearing Blair Nadeau ‘Matilda’ Crown, Nancy Vuu ‘Helene’ gown and Ivanka Trump Park Ballet Flat in silver
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Hannah is wearing a blush and gold sequin Nancy Vuu dress, Blair Nadeau ‘Amalia’crown Ivanka Trump Park Ballet strap silver
Imani is wearing Blair Nadeau ‘Matilda Crown, Nancy Vuu ‘Helene’ gown Stuart Weitzman ‘Erica Elsie in silver
Couture gowns by Nancy Vuu Crowns by Blair Nadeau Millinery Isabelle Kline Design Hot Tots hair care Jillian Berres for Matthew Morris Salon Stephanie Klasse Makeup Stuart Weitzman Kids Ivanka Trump Kids Sage Bowman as Stylist Grant Humphrey’s Mansion Models from Marbles Talent Agency Hannah, Johanna, Maddie and Imani
Princess and Prince Charming Photography by Ashley Ludaescher
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Photography: Ashley Ludaescher Creative Direction: A Very Beloved Wedding Location: Hotel Imperial & City Palace Liechtenstein Bridal Dresses: Lena Hoschek Makeup & Hair: Julie Mikulitsch Floral Design: A Very Beloved Bloom Cake & Sweets: Dilekerei Stationary: Post Calligraphy Cape & Robe: Eva Poleschinski Rentals: Mietmobel Fohr Shoes: Pura Lopez Carolina Herrera Stuart Weitzman Salvatore Ferragamo Perfume: Carolina Herrera Earrings: Swarovski
SAVIN LONDON
SAVIN LONDON
SAVIN LONDON
ERNA DRESS
NIGELLA DRESS
FLORA DRESS
WWW.SAVINLONDON.COM
LORE DRESS
PHOTOGRAPHY: CURTIS GIBSON HAIR & MAKEUP: MIN SANDHU MODEL: BRIDGET VALENTINE
True Elegance By Photo Elegance
Dress: Ivania by Pronovias Jewelry: Meg Jewelry, Carolina Earrings Cardinal Necklace, Lewis Bracelet, Indigo Bracelet, Savanah Bracelet Model: Becca Blaise (West Model & Talent Management) Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Jessica Dana
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Dress: Photography: Photo Elegance http://www.phelegance.com/ Dress:Jocelyn JocelynbybyEnzoani Enzoani Jewelry: Meg Jewelry Jewelry: Meg Jewelry Dress: Jocelyn by Enzoani Jewelry: Meg Jewelry http://www. Song SongBracelet Bracelet Claudia megweddingjewelry.com/Song Bracelet Claudia Necklace ClauClaudiaNecklace Necklace Claudie Earings Claudie Earrings die Earings Model: Haley Zink (West model &Model: talent manageValerie Walls Model: Haley Zink ment) http://westmodelmanagement.com/Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Dana (West Model Jessica Management) http://www.valeriewallsartistry.com/Makeup: Jessica Dana Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Jessica Dana http://jessicadana.com/IMG_15/16Photography: Photo Elegance http://www.phelegance.com/Dress: Jocelyn by Enzoani Jewelry: Rachel’s Design http://www.rachelsdesign.com/Dazzling Diamond Drop and Black Spinel Necklace and Matching Bracelet 40Í&#x;Seed Pearl Rope Necklace w 14k solid white gold clasp Black Onyx and Turquoise Earrings Model: Haley Zink (West model & talent management) http://westmodelmanagement.com/Hair: Valerie Walls http://www.valeriewallsartistry.com/Makeup: Jessica Dana http://jessicadana.com/ IMG_17/20 Photography: Photo Elegance http://www.phelegance.com/Dress: Alvina Valenta Jewelry: Meg Jewelry http:// www.megweddingjewelry.com/Chesnut Necklace Chesnut Bracelet Chesnut Earrings Model: Becca Blaise (West model & talent management) http://westmodelmanagement.com/Hair: Valerie Walls http://www.valeriewallsartistry.com/Makeup:
Dress: Alvina Valenta Jewelry: Meg Jewelry, Chesnut Necklace Chesnut Bracelet, Chesnut Earrings Model: Becca Blaise (West Model & Talent Management) Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Jessica Dana
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Dress: Alvina Valenta Jewelry: Rachel’s Designs Glistening Moonstone, Opal Necklace Model: Jeanna Been Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Jessica Dana
Dress: Enzoani with cape Jewelry: Rachel’s Design Victorian Tassel Earrings, Cameo and Pearl Bracelet with Sapphires and Diamonds Model: Haley Zink (West Model & Talent Management) Hair: Valerie Walls Makeup: Jessica Dana Photography: Photo Elegance Dresses: Simply Elegant Bridal Location: Elegant Luxurious Estate St. Louis Interior Design: Jennifer Kirkton
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Ida Sjostedt Couture
Michelle Dress
Violetta Dress
Couture & ready to wear designs by Tony Ward www.tonyward.net Photography by Tinko Czetwertynsk Model Sheila Baum
Chantal Dress
Eternity Dress
Veronica Dress
www.yolancris.com
CHARLIE BREAR
Leanne Marshall NYFW WWW.CHARLIEBREAR.COM
Liriene and Lissette
KALLISTE BELT
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Calla and Canya
Calantha and Cateline skirt
GAYAH BELT Wren WWW.OSSAIBRIDALACCESSORIES.COM
79 Getty Images for Leanne Marshall Designs
ROMANCE By Nicole Marcelli
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Dresses: The Bridal Collection Pronovias, Lazaro & Victor Harper Veils & Tiaras: Donna Beth Creations Flowers: Babylon Floral Design, Inc. Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes Photographer: Nicole Marcelli Hair & Makeup: Mel Akana & Tia Fiori Models: Donna Baldwin, Kari Riley & Satya Gottlieb Venue: Cherokee Castle
Jenny Packham ‘Hermia’
‘Mina’
‘Titania’ www.jennypackham.com
ALL SPECTRUM CROWN
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Majestic Affair Photography by RebeccaMarie
EUROPE ED
BERTA Style 15-26 Cathedral Veil by Veil Trends ‘Ella’ in silver by Emmy London Engagement ring by Gnat Original Designs ‘Lucilla’LEE crownHEAD by Viktoria Novak MARY PIECE
DITORIAL
BERTA Style 15-23 Cathedral Veil by Veil Trends Engagement ring, Earrings & Bracelet by Gnat Original Designs ‘Aedos’ crown by Viktoria Novak
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BERTA Style 15-23 ‘Aphrodite’ crown by Viktoria Novak Cathedral Veil by Veil Trends ‘Cinderella’ by Emmy London Engagement ring, Earrings, & Bracelet by Gnat Original Designs
BERTA Style 14-11 Engagement ring & Bracelet by Gnat Original Designs ‘Anastasia’ crown by Viktoria Novak
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BERTA Style 14-11 Ivory ‘Cinderella’ heels by Emmy London Engagement Ring, Earrings & Bracelet by Gnat Original Designs ‘Lucilla’ crown by Viktoria Novak
Gowns: BERTA Bridal Crowns: Viktoria Novak Exclusive Jewelry: Gnat Original Designs Veils: Veil Trends Shoes: Emmy London Floral: Cynthia Nicholson Location: Chateau de Challain, France Models: Laura Schepens and M’Elhoe Bouchet Makeup and Hair: Bonnie Chou Styled: Sage Bowman Photography: RebeccaMarie Photography
PRONOVIAS
‘EDA’
STYLE ‘EDURNE’ ‘EDURNE’
‘EINARA’
‘ELAIA’
WWW.PRONOVIAS.COM
BHDLN WWW.BHLDN.COM
CELEBRATION CRINKLE FANS (10) $20
VENISE LACE BIKINI $58-$68
NACRE CLUTCH $220
LOTTI LACE FLATS $200
ARBORETA BRACELET $289
FRANCA DRESS $465
Timeless Beauty by Heather Honstien 2016’s brides are stunningly in-the-know, with a mix of something borrowed from eras long ago. Brides are more beautiful than ever, with the capability to wear a gorgeous modern-day gown and vintage inspired accessories. Birdcage veils on pillbox or teardrop hats like those from Rachel Trevor Morgan, combine classic lace, white flowers and bows. These demure hats with feathers are done exquisitely. In this collection, every hat is crafted with gorgeous attention to detail. Worn angled atop the bride’s head and slightly to her right side, this birdcage veiled teardrop hat is sassy and classy, covering just a part of her face. The flapper casque is absolutely beautiful. A perfect fit gives the woman wearing it a sultry and seductive look. Seeing this hat on a bride
is reminiscent of a Gatsby era, perhaps a 1920s jazz or swing party, filled with the upper class and prohibited champagne. Rarely does one find a flapper-style hat as flattering as this turban created by Rachel Trevor Morgan, a classically vintage that gives a modern European edge. And for every bride a clutch purse to carry the essentials is not only smart, but can be the perfect final touch. The Francesca Opera Clutch by Emmy London gives brides an elegant purse to carry their essentials. The golden hand decorated Swarovski crystal fan on the ivory clutch is astonishing. Fitting for many, this clutch gives brides a Cinderella feel with posh elegance. (Featured above is Emmy of London ‘Francesca Opera Clutch $681)
Rachel Trevor Morgan Millinery
Rachel Trevor Morgan Millinery
Harriet Wilde Ember Shoe
Harriet Wilde ‘Daisy’ Grip
Harriet Wilde ‘Triple Rose’ Comb Crystal in Gold 109
LULU FROST BELLEVILLE RING $135
L. ERICKSON LEXINGTON TIGE BOULE BARRETTE $118
FRANCE LUXE LUSH CRYSTAL FILIGREE CHIGNON $138
tony ward ‘maeve’
LULU FROST LF X BRIDES FOREVER STATEMENT EARRING $225
RALPH & RUSSO PUMPS
LULU FROST CITE NECKLACE $495
L.ERICKSON COSMO JAW $48
LULU FROST BEACON STUD $225
GETTING READY HAPPINESS PLUMPRETTYSUGAR.COM
European Cosmetics for the International Bride
European beauty can seem trend-driven on the runways, but women and brides
by barbara santos
across the varied landscape of Europe care about the
T
he modern bride has seemingly infinite access to everything wedding-related around the world. Information travels fast, and so do formulas and trends. The beauty industry isn’t immune to this phenomenon, but since the definition of what is beautiful varies so widely from one culture to another, it’s only natural that how a person achieves beauty also varies. Although the countries within Europe are culturally diverse, the standard of European cosmetics and skincare as a whole can be seen through a generalized view. What makes the European beauty industry so differen t, and what makes them special? Everything from the beauty ideals, to the formulas and ingredients, and the regulation of the industry are what set European beauty apart from much of the world.
W
hile European women share similar concerns with American women regarding beauty, Europeans tend to prefer simple and yet effective products with minimalist packaging and a definite sense of luxury. Europeans in general, are willing to pay more for heavy packaging that can be kept and used for decoration. The same applies to brand names, having a designer name on the packaging of your eyeshadow, even if it looks as luxurious as an off brand, is valued.
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products they use.
Quality Cosmetics
R
egarding makeup, there are a many brands in Europe worth trying. There are the ever present designer brands like Chanel, Dior, Lancôme and YSL readily available in the U.S. (Although, formulas and colors can be totally different, even if the product is called something very similar.) There are also high quality brands such as Nabla, an Italian brand that is gaining popularity quickly, with their highly pigmented eyeshadows is another rising star. Another stunning brand of makeup and a professional’s favorite out of Italy, is KIKO MILANO. They have a full line of high-quality cosmetics and skincare. Stores from this brand are popping up around the globe, including in the U.S. It is brand worth checking out. “Effortless chic” has been a longstanding mark of European beauty. This simplistic ideal of “quality over quantity” philosophy permeates Europe as a whole. It is perhaps even more noticeable with brides—how you envision yourself walking down the aisle speaks
volumes about your sense of aesthetics and what beauty is to you. Simple, clean makeup is the norm, and enhancing the face of the bride while staying true to her natural look is the most fashionable and chic expression of European beauty trends. Glitter, heavy makeup, bright colors and fashion forward looks are kept for parties, a night out, or the runways in Paris or Milan.
Skincare for Beautiful Skin Skincare is very important to Europeans. Truth be told, makeup will not lay perfectly if your skin isn’t well cared for. Caudalie and Lierac are two of the best selling skincare brands in Europe, and are sold at a reasonable price point. Uriage, La Roche-Posay, Avene and Vichy are also good products if you’re looking for skincare. With the exception of Lierac, all these brands have thermal water as their main focus— it soothes and replenishes the skin, helping it regain a natural balance. Carefully balanced skin provides a palate on which the other products applied penetrate more deeply, and can be more effective. You can also use it instead of a toner, as a mist, over your makeup, or throughout the day. My personal favourite thermal water is the one from Uriage, as it is naturally isotonic, meaning your skin is more likely to absorb the minerals it carries. Many of these brands also incorporate their thermal water in their creams and other products. Lierac is especially good in anti-aging products that actually deliver, though there’s a Lierac line for every skin concern you may have.
European consumers, and especially brides, care about what they put on their bodies just as much as they care about what goes in their bodies. This high European standard increases prices. Another differentiator of European cosmetics, on a whole, is in regards to animal testing. Ever since 2009, the European Union banned the testing of cosmetic ingredients in animals within its borders, though the testing of the finished products was previously banned. Since 2013, the European Union stopped allowing cosmetics that are animal-tested to be sold within its borders. The ban applies to both cosmetics products and ingredients. To many brides this is a very important factor, and they choose to buy and use European cosmetics because they offer a certain level of guarantee that animals weren’t harmed. European beauty can seem trend-driven on the runways, but women and brides across the varied landscape of Europe care about the products they use. High-end labels are ever present, and carry a price tag to accompany the name brand, but high-end ingredients, pigments and quality of processing/packaging can be found across a large number of brands and price points. The desires of the European brides are not unique to the continent though. Having an awareness of the quality of European cosmetics and skin care can enhance the experience of any bride.
Testing and Ingredients The list of ingredients forbidden is greater in Europe than in the U.S. In Europe, the regulations have more to do with studies that are inconclusive and neither link to nor dissociate a certain ingredient from negative effects. However,for an ingredient to be banned in the U.S., definite proof that it is harmful is needed.
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LOOK FLAWLESS wedding day must haves www.mustaevusa.com
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An Interview with Sarah Haywood, Luxury Wedding Planner By Ruth Shilling
We were able to interview the lovely Sarah Haywood of Sarah Haywood Luxury Wedding Planners & Event Designers, based in the UK. TV journalism was her first career, but she made the transition to wedding planning easily because her organization and ability to work well under pressure. She states, “...you always need a backup plan that can be implemented in the event something goes wrong.” Her background has helped her to be flexible and “have confidence during the live event to allow what is working to breathe and pull back on things that perhaps do not.” Sarah and her team are experts at planning for many eventualities in order to create a beautifully memorable experience for all attending. Sarah offers bespoke weddings in a way that has brought her success across the channel and overseas. Many of the custom weddings are for royalty,
Fortune 500 business people, and billionaires. Wedding services include assistance with venue, ceremony and reception design, flowers, food, stationery, photography, wedding day attire, entertainment, cake, transportation, honeymoon, wedding websites, assistance the week and day of the wedding, and helping in finding the absolute perfect bespoke engagement ring. While most of these elements are fairly standard, the quality is enough to drive her business. Our interview with the wedding planning maven provided many tips and great advice from the planner about creating a captivating, one-of-a-kind wedding that can apply to any budget wedding. She also shares some personal reflections on her relationship.
the small details overlooked. I believe too that is what we in the UK are best known for. Certainly it is the hallmark Sarah Haywood: I draw inspiration of my own company. It is not just the from all kinds of people, places and larger elements we focus on, but every things all about me. But the starting detail has to be perfect. We are only as point when designing and planning a good as the worse element. wedding is always the clients: I like to I like to think we set trends with our get to know them, understand what clients rather than follow them. I also inspires and motivates them, and strongly believe there is no right or ensure we reflect those specifics in wrong way to style a wedding, so long their wedding design, as well as the as it is appropriate to the couple and experience for guests. their lifestyle. I want a wedding to reflect those we are planning it for, RS: Do you have an ideal to ensure it really captures who they bride? If so, what is she like? are as people in every way, from the SH: A bride who trusts in the process moment the invitation arrives in the and engages in it is my ideal client. mailbox to the very last image of the Part of what we have been hired to couple at the end of the wedding day. do is offer expertise alongside that of the vendors we hire. Also, a couple RS: How far in advance is ideal who understands that I can work tiny for brides to contact? miracles but I am not a magician, SH: The shortest lead-time we have and a budget is what it is. I cannot worked to is 19 days for a Middle suddenly magic up a money tree! Eastern princess. It was tight, but we made it work. Typically, we have 12 RS: Do you have a specific to 16 weeks, 6 months is ideal, and 9 aesthetic or do you adapt for months is a luxury in our market. Ruth Shilling: Where do you draw your inspiration for wedding planning?
each bride?
SH: Every wedding is different: that’s because we start with a clean sheet of paper and plan the wedding around our clients—rather than shoehorning them into an existing service. I always promise couples that their dream will be our dream—even if we have to work together to find out what that dream is. Glamour and style is our signature look and to some degree opulence. We work exclusively in the luxury market, and I believe it’s our role to constantly set new standards in terms of design—and not just on the big things but also the quality of the small details. It is not acceptable to spend a large amount of money creating a celebration and have the attention to
RS: What do you hope brides know before finding a wedding planner?
SH: The perfect scenario is to hire us early on and know 5 simple things (I call them the ‘Big 5’): 1) When, approximately, they want to get married; 2) Where—a rough geographic location; 3) Whether it will be a civil or religious ceremony or a symbolic blessing; 4) Approximately how many guests; and 5) The million dollar question: how much money they can afford to spend.
(continued on page 124)
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(Sarah Haywood, continued from page 121) RS: On a personal note, what do you do when you aren’t a wedding planner?
SH: When I do have time to relax I enjoy walking and hiking, swimming in the sea, eating good food and drinking great wine. And I love a good book! We have a villa in Portugal, and the perfect day to me is when I am on our terrace there looking out to the sea, the sun shining and a long leisurely breakfast with my husband just chatting. We never seem to run out of things to talk about! I know that success means little without someone to share it with, and that true happiness is not about what you achieve professionally (financial or otherwise); it comes from simple things and the love of family and friends. RS: You are the author and creator of the Wedding Bible, a guide to a luxury wedding, and the Wedding Bible Planner to help brides with staying organized before their wedding and on the day of the event. What inspired your book the Wedding Bible?
SH: I wrote the first edition of a decade ago and approached the task with my former journalistic hat on. It was before the days of the bridal blog and when the Internet was not a common tool to assist couple’s plan a wedding. I wanted it be proper grown up advice for the modern bride, not patronizing advice, and with imagery from real weddings rather than styled photo-shoots. The second edition was published last year and I am so proud that it has stood the test of time. RS: Is there anything else you would like to share?
SH: My Top Ten Wedding Planning Tips
We work exclusively in the luxury market, and I believe it’s our role to constantly set new standards in terms of design—and not just on the big things but also the quality of the small details.
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Sarah Haywood’s 10 Top Wedding Planning Tips Sarah Haywood is internationally acknowledged as one of the world’s top wedding planners and designers; sought by celebrities, leading public figures, and nobility. Sarah and her team have planned weddings from Azerbaijan to St Tropez for pop stars, princesses and for some of the world’s leading families. Sarah is also the UK’s top-selling bridal author (her most recent book Wedding Bible is a luxurious coffee table-style publication) and was established as the go-to international commentator for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. She regularly appears on TV and radio internationally and her weddings and parties are featured in bridal and celebrity magazines. An award winning businesswoman, Sarah is also the UK’s topselling bridal author and she was the first wedding planner globally to develop smartphone phone apps.
www. sarahhaywood.com MONEY MANAGEMENT Plan only for the type of wedding you can afford. Accept what you’ve got to spend and always shop with this in mind. Create your perfect wedding, not an international pop star’s dream day. BE ORGANIZED It’s the key to successful and stress free wedding planning. PRIORITIZE Don’t waste time getting carried away with the detail of your day until you have put in place the key elements: where and when you’ll be married, who you will invite and how much money you can spend. PRESENT A UNITED FRONT Create your day together and present a united front to your families. Leave some room for family input – especially if they are contributing financially. RESPECT & COMPROMISE Be sensitive to the desires and expectations of each other and your families. Respect the point of view of others who are invested in the day (financially or otherwise) and listen, even if you eventually reject their ideas. Be prepared to negotiate and compromise. DELEGATE Behind every blooming bride and gorgeous groom is a fabulous and efficient team, so delegate what you can to friends and family who have skills in areas you need help with. BRIDESMAIDS & BEST MAN Have a reliable best man and maid of honour. If your closest friends are not reliable and/or competent, give them something else to do. HIRING & FIRING Do not hire anyone or anything until you have seen or sampled their service or products. Get every detail in writing and ensure taxes and service are included. Before signing a contract ask: “Is this your best price?” KEEP COOL, CALM & COLLECTED, especially with your nearest and dearest. Don’t alienate anyone you’ll need later on. (I’m thinking mother-in-law here!). WEDDING FREE ZONES Have wedding free zones in your home(s) and wedding free evenings once a week with your with your intended when you go out together and do not discuss the wedding. Then you’ll remember why you are getting married!
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ed W l a oy
R
s
g n i d
By Season Hurd
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he dream of marrying into royalty is quite pervasive. Some might argue a yearning for power or wealth. However, in the remaining 12 monarchies in Europe, far less authority is expressed by the royal families nowadays and some have less monetary worth than international celebrities. But royalty has a historical significance and majesty that can be found nowhere else. It is the eternal presence of their elevated status and relative candidness in life that intrigues. The world eagerly awaits rare glimpses of their lifestyle and are occasionally rewarded with regal pageantry— none of which is more apparent than on their days of matrimony or coronation. With so few remaining royal dynasties, it’s a particularly large treat when a royal wedding occurs today. No longer uniting warring countries, the royal ladies have taken on their new destiny as cultural icons, most notably in fashion. Their
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wealth and popularity help them become muses for designers, and the paparazzi ensures that their every fashion move stays in the press. Most designers will fight for the chance to design a royal wedding gown, but are also happy to design for the attending dignitaries and celebrity guests. Today’s royal weddings feel more like red carpet events than anything else, and offer myriad opportunities to be inspired by fashion. Once the big day has passed, women around the world are left clamoring to incorporate the royal styles into their weddings. Within mere hours of her wedding in 1981, a replica of Princess Diana’s top secret David Emanuel dress was available in a London Store. Likewise, her would-be daughter-in-law is a fashionista under a microscope. Overnight, knockoffs of Kate Middleton’s Alexander McQueen wedding gown were everywhere, and sleeves made an unprecedented comeback.
Wedding gowns are designed with great intention. Floral motifs incorporated in the lace are symbols of bloodline or love. At very minimum, they are the finest fabrics that Europe has to offer. Nowadays, royals tend to marry one of their own countrymen and their weddings are very much a matter of national pride. Regional designers and local materials are often sourced for dresses. However timeless it may become, the fit and design of the dress is actually chosen to be very current and representative of the homeland. It is said that Queen Elizabeth’s train was a symbol of prosperity and regrowth after WWII. Even with a newfound openness and modernity in the portrayal of royals, certain rules still apply. Royal weddings are designed with both the couple and their position as heads of state in mind.
Vendors are carefully selected for their discerning taste and commitment to privacy. Photographs are taken from only certain directions, cameras are off-limits throughout most of the day, and the various royal houses largely determine how the wedding will be seen in the media. Brides’ gowns may be contemporary in part but are also respectful. Sleeved gowns are nearly universal to this day as a symbol of modesty that is becoming of a royal and expected in high profile national churches. White is still the color of choice, but the love affair with lace has waxed and waned. Trains and tiaras, sometimes thought ostentatious in today’s common weddings, are never out of style at a royal affair. Yet somehow, with all of these commonalities and rules, the ladies of the court always have fresh, fabulous, and highly sought after looks.
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The New Girl
Princess Sophie and Prince Carl Philip, Duke of Varmland In 2015, the world got another taste of royal bliss when Swedish Prince Carl Philip, Duke of Varmland, married fellow Swede Sophia Hellqvist. Satisfying the Cinderella story with a thoroughly modern twist, the former model and reality television personality found true love with an incredibly handsome prince. Sophie’s celebrity appeal drew even more attention to the power couple’s nuptials. Her dress was designed by Swedish designer Ida Sjöstedt in three shades of
white. Couture lace, a cascading train, and a new diamond and emerald tiara completed her look. The stunning couple continues to win our hearts upon the addition of their son, Prince Alexander. Their fairy tale romance and newfound domestic bliss are the pride of the country and the envy of the world. Acclaimed Swedish photographer Mattias Edwall photographed the royal pairs wedding photographs. Highly sought after for celebrity and fine art photography.
A ROYAL HISTORY
For centuries, royal nuptials were very private affairs with little to-do. Betrothals were bargaining chips for peace in a highly precarious political world and even very young children were paired for future matrimony. Marrying someone from a rival country to make them an ally was commonplace, and certainly not something to celebrate on a personal level. It was not even unheard of for a proxy to stand in for the groom at the actual wedding ceremony. On a public scale, little joy was taken in the marriages either. Their subjects were not emotionally tied to their leadership and there was no reason to court this relationship with divine right as their claim to power.
robe lined with ermine fur, for example.
It was not until the advent of the printing press and the beginning of widespread periodical distribution of the 15th century that the general public became aware of the goings on at royal weddings. And even back then, it was all about the bride’s dress. The first fashion periodicals wrote at length about the gown and other details of the day, often roasting the bride and groom for their choices in attire. Wedding garments at this time were typically dark in color to hide stains as they were almost always worn repeatedly thereafter. The rare white dress was considered frivolous and dyed after the nuptials. Images from this time that appear to show brides in white are typically silver or gold dresses that displayed wealth by literally “wearing your money”. Other status-proclaiming touches were details like fur, jewels, and metallic thread. It was not unheard of for a royal woman to marry in a deep purple
Another century would pass before royal couples regularly married for love instead of experiencing the rare happy accident of Queen Victoria’s story. The relationships of royals started to look more like those of the common man and even more advances in media technology meant that their newly endeared subjects felt intimately involved with them. Adding to the romanticism, royals in many lands were allowed to marry those who were not royal. The “Cinderella Story” became an attainable dream. This reached a fever pitch when beloved Hollywood starlet Grace Kelly married the Prince of Monaco and blended all of the West’s favorite unattainable fantasies into one wedding. Her gown is one of the most iconic pieces of wedding fashion in modern history and continues to inspire designers to this day. Photography by www.mattiasedwall.com
Arguably, the one who turned everything around was Queen Victoria of England. While she was not in love when betrothed to her husband, she fell head over heels when she met him. Their tender marriage and beautiful domesticity became a source of inspiration for their subjects. As a result, many aspects of their wedding day were emulated— including the beginning of white as the wedding dress color of choice. Her gown would also set the stage for generations of English brides to carefully choose the lace, embroidery, and flowers for their dress to convey deep meaning about the wearer.
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Italian Riviera Wedding
Italian Riviera Wedding
Italian Riviera Wedding
Italian Wedding planner: Barbara Gourdain www.extraordinaryweddings.com Ceremony & Reception: Villa Faraggiana, Albissola Marina & Ligurian Riviera Music: Jazzlag, Photographer: Giulia Molinari
ISABELLEKLINEDESIGN.COM
303.856.4140
Photography by Le Secret d’Audrey Event Planning by La Fabrique A Reves Floral Design by L’art Qui Pousse
BEAULIEU GARDEN by erich mcvey
WEDDING PLANNER: STACY MCCAIN EVENT PLANNING CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: BEAULIEU GARDEN CATERING & RENTALS: PAULA LEDUC FINE CATERING PHOTOGRAPHY: ERICH MCVEY VIDEOGRAPHER: STUDIO 205 FILMS FLORAL DESIGNERS: FLOWER WILD INVITATIONS: RIFLE PAPER CO HAIR & MAKEUP: THE GLAMOURIST GOWN: OSCAR DE LA RENTA
A Supermodel Weds at Chateau Challain Where Fairytale Weddings Come True By Amy Rivers
Located
in the Loire Valley the Chȃteau Challain is one of France’s most spectacular privately owned castles. Just 90 minutes from Paris by TGV (High Speed Train), and 40 minutes from the airport in Nantes, the Chȃteau de Challain is the ultimate venue for your destination castle wedding. Purchased in 2002 by the Nicholson family, the Chȃteau itself has been painstakingly restored to its original grandeur while the grounds have been carefully enhanced and expanded to breathtaking effect. Planning Your Dream Wedding at the Chȃteau Creating the wedding of your dreams is the top priority for event staff at the Chȃteau.
Q: What services does the Chȃteau offer wedding parties? A: Anything they want, we try to get for them. Some wedding enhancements we offer include hot air balloon rides for guests or for the couple as they make their exit, a local artist creating beautiful watercolors during the event and even a live jazz band. Q: What size weddings are usually hosted at the Chȃteau? A: Our average size is 35-70 guests, though we can also accommodate weddings of 100+. Q: Are there many destination weddings that happen? A: All our weddings are destination for our couples and guests. The Chȃteau is not a local venue.
Q: What features draw brides to the Chȃteau? A: It is one of the most beautiful chȃteaux in France Q: Are there indoor and outdoor options? A: Yes, our main rooms accommodate up to 70 with an ...a real fairytale castle, so they say. additional room for overflow. The grounds also offer a picturesque backdrop for your wedding day.
Q: Is catering in-house or are there suggested local vendors to work with? A: Catering is done by Michel Cudraz, a Michelin star chef since 2008, and his experienced staff. Q: How many rooms are available for accommodations to guests traveling? A: We have 22 rooms, many featuring canopy beds with silk curtains, ornate fireplaces, private sitting and dining areas and stunning views of the grounds. Each room boasts historic elegance and modern comfort. Q: Are there packages available for weddings or is pricing customized for each wedding? A: We have 2 main packages and then customize to give the bride and groom everything they desire. All proceeds from your wedding will go toward further restoration of this important historic property.
History of the Chȃteau According to the Chȃteau’s website, in the 19th century, the Count and the Countess of La Rochefoucauld-Bayers constructed a grand NeoGothic castle on their La Potherie Estate. They commissioned Parisian architect Louis Visconti, famed for designing the Louvre extension, to replace the original 16th century castle. The owners chose Rene Hode, a well-known Angevin architect to oversee the building project. Construction began in 1848 and was completed in 1854. The Chȃteau was designed to commemorate the passing of time. Its four towers represent the seasons, 12 turrets represent the lunar months, 26 spiral staircases represent the fortnights per year, 52 fireplaces represent the weeks of the year, and 365 windows represent each passing day. It covers an area of 7,600 square meters (nearly 82,000 square feet). Ultimately, the Chȃteau became one of the grandest private French homes of the 19th century. It boasts a wealth of architectural detail, including intricate woodcarvings, Gothic paneling and sculptures, large working fireplaces, and hand painted ceilings. It is situated on a beautifully manicured estate, which occupies one corner of a quaint village. Because of the property’s ambiance and the design of the castle itself, Chȃteau de Challain is often referred to as the “Neo-Gothic Jewel of Anjou” or “Le Petite Chambord.”
Featured wedding: Supermodel Coco Rocha and James Conran Photography by Daniel Griffiths www.dgphotos.com.au
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European Wedding Customs I
By Amy Rivers
f you’re planning an American style wedding in Europe, you’ll enjoy a wide range of venues and services to create your dream wedding. But, if you’re looking to add some European charm to your wedding, incorporating time honored traditions from the country of your chosen wedding venue will make the day even more memorable for you and your guests. Common European traditions include the use of specific flowers, monetary gifts to help pay for the honeymoon and even the symbolic kidnapping of the bride. It is also important to note that in many European countries, the couple will have a religious ceremony apart from the civil ceremony since only the civil ceremony is legally recognized. Here are a few European wedding customs to consider. France In traditional French weddings, the bride and groom drink wine from a cup called a coupe de mariage, which is specially engraved for the occasion. A bridal trousseau containing all the necessary household requirements may be presented to the bride by her parents. At the wedding reception, the guests may pile small cakes into a high pile in front of the bride and groom. If the couple can kiss without knocking the pile over, it is said that they will enjoy long life and prosperity. A traditional French wedding cake is called Croquembouche (meaning crunching in one’s mouth) and is made of cream puff cones filled with French pastry cream and covered in caramelized sugar and then decorated with marzipan flowers and chocolate drizzle.
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The wedding procession may include obstacles symbolizing the path through married life. Successfully navigating these obstacles signifies their strengths as a couple. When the couple retires, guests may bang pots and pans outside their house until they’re invited in for a drink. Only after the last guest has gone are the couple able to begin their wedding night. Germany As in many parts of Europe, the wedding ceremony is often performed in three parts: a civil ceremony, a party or reception, and then a religious ceremony where the only bridal attendant is the flower girl. In Germany, friends and family may create a wedding newspaper with articles and pictures of the couple. They will be sold at wedding to help pay for honeymoon. In a fun German custom, newlyweds must work together to saw a log in half in front of their guests demonstrating their ability to work together and face life’s obstacles. It is considered good luck for guests to break a dish outside the couple’s home. As mentioned, another common European custom involves kidnapping the bride. In Germany, the bride is stolen away from after the ceremony and taken to various pubs. According to custom, the groom must follow and pick up the tab at each stop. The role of the best man originated in Germany as part of this custom. The best man was often chosen for his strength and physical ability so that he could help recapture the bride. Italy In Italy, the bride’s family may escort her to the ceremony.
She may encounter domestic obstacles on her way: for instance, a broom might signify domestic duties or a baby may signify fertility. The groom often carries an iron token in his pocket to ward off evil spirits, while the bride may wear a slightly torn veil and hide her face to ward off jealous spirits. Traditionally, the luckiest day for marriage is Sunday, though many modern weddings are performed on Saturdays. Guests at an Italian wedding would give only monetary gifts, which the bride would collect in a silk bag she carries throughout the wedding day. And though confetti is an Italian term we have come to associate with small pieces of paper, in Italy confetti is sugary sweet like sugared almonds and are given to guests as favors or thrown at the couple as they leave the wedding. Greece It is Greek custom for the rings to be blessed both before and during the ceremony. Candles are an important part of Greek wedding, with the bride and groom holding candles during ceremony. Crowns called Stefana are placed on the couple’s heads. These crowns are connected with a ribbon to signify the marriage union and their rule over the household. Norway In Norwegian weddings, the bride wears a white or silver gown with a crown of silver or gold. Small charms on the crown, often in the shape of small dangling spoons, make a musical sound thought to ward off evil spirits.
bring them luck in love. Similar to the German custom, in Norway, brides are often kidnapped a few days before the wedding and the groom or his family has to find her. England The famous tradition of something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue originated in England. The English bride may sew a small good luck charm into her dress. In England, the traditional wedding cake is fruitcake. And the groom’s cake was an English invention. Spain A traditional Spanish bride would have orange blossoms incorporated into her wedding. The Spanish groom may give his bride 13 coins to symbolize his commitment. She will carry these coins with her in a small bag during the wedding. Portugal A Portuguese wedding is like a Royal feast, often featuring a seafood buffet and other traditional dishes, and lasting late into the night. During the reception, the copo d’ agua takes place, where the bride and groom go to each table to visit with guests and make sure they are having a good time. Instead of gifts, the guests will pay for a chance to dance with the bride and groom. This money is intended to help with the wedding and honeymoon expenses. At the end of the day, guests throw candies and flowers instead of rice at the exiting couple.
The traditional Norwegian wedding cake, called the kransekake, is made of bread covered in cheese, cream and syrup. It is then folded and cut into squares for the guests to enjoy. Wales The Welsh bride carries myrtle in her bouquet as a symbol of love. She may give sprigs to her bridesmaids to
Ashley Ludaescher
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Before Nuptials by anna ambrosi
Photography by Bianco Photography Event at Castle Howard, York
Photography by Erich McVey Beaulieu Garden Paula Leduc Fine Catering Flower Wild Rifle Paper Co.
Claire Gordon Events Floral by Flora by Nora Photography by Lisa O’Dwyer
Sweet Hollywood Cakes ‘Double Chandalier’
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Sweet Hollywood Cakes ‘Vertigo’
Three Tomatoes Italy by Julia LeBaron
Novelty Bride is thrilled to announce exciting new additions to a wonderful wedding vendor called Three Tomatoes Company. Three Tomatoes has extended the reach of their services beyond the United States to Europe, particularly Italy. Brides-to-be can rest assured that their dream wedding plans are in good hands with the event planners of Three Tomatoes. The company recently released this statement about the breathtaking new possibilities: “It is with great pleasure that we announce the launch of Three Tomatoes Italy. With our headquarters in Denver, CO and a new division in Italy, this newest extension of Three Tomatoes Companies creates experiences of the highest level of sophistication and class for American couples seeking a fairy tale wedding in Italy. Three Tomatoes Italy combines the beauty and adventure of a
destination wedding with the ease of planning from right at home. We combine full wedding planning and event management services, with quality-tested logistics and operations all over Italy. We plan, arrange, and execute every aspect of our American couple’s special day including audio/visual services, event conceptual and thematic design, as well as provide day-ofcoordination. We work with local trusted and supervised caterers and vendors to ensure our clients experience all Italy has to offer. Our team ensures that clients receive a truly cultural experience by arranging pre and post wedding day Italian site tours, guided visits, wine and culinary tastings, as well as transportation services throughout their experience. From full wedding planning to execution, Three Tomatoes Italy manages every detail of the couple’s special day.
For over 35 years Three Tomatoes Companies have delivered exquisite events to our valued customers in the USA. From food and service to event dÊcor and day-of- coordination, the Three Tomatoes brand has always been synonymous with luxury and quality. As an extension of Three Tomatoes Companies, Three Tomatoes Italy upholds this mission and extends it across the ocean.�
We invite you to investigate further the possibilities that an exquisite Italian wedding can offer. Visit the above mentioned website for more information about event planning and how to have the ultimate European wedding experience.
www.threetomatoes.com
Photography by Sara Donaldson Event Design & Planner by A Very Beloved Wedding
Cake & Sweets by Dilekerei
NOVELTYBRIDE.COM
1.720.281.6953