One of a kind

Plenty of weddings these days are casual instead of formal affairs and striving for a unique theme. There’s a greater desire to reflect the couple’s personality, incorporating their interests and tastes rather than those of the parent’s. In the past parents had a strong influence on the couple as they were probably paying for the wedding. Old style traditions were strictly adhered to for their sake but now you see more of a party atmosphere. The focus of the celebration is the couple’s union and the formal procedures are often dreamed up by the couple with bits taken from everywhere.

I loved hearing from our Publisher at Bride that she had just attended a pagan wedding. According to a recent news article there’s quite an interest in the whole pagan thing. Not that I am any expert, but the witchcraft in all those TV shows – Charmed, Buffy as well as Harry Potter has apparently sparked an interest in these ancient spiritual ways. Of course the gown at the pagan wedding wasn’t white (rust red actually) and the ceremony unusual – outside in nature was very earthy and a brilliantly fresh experience for the guests. Maybe it sounds silly to some but I love the idea of these unique weddings – especially from a fashion and style point of view. I think this also goes for culturally influenced weddings such as the Indian, Chinese, European or Middle Eastern influences on gowns and ceremonies. This can be really beautiful especially for those couples combining the customs and styles from two different cultures if they inter-marry and adding a contemporary flavour. There is a lot to learn from other parts of the world and other religions - for instance the gorgeous riot of colours from the east – the reds & oranges, the many outfits for ceremony, reception, going away etc. plus some of the profound rituals performed.

With influences from whatever is important to you – whether it be spiritual or cultural - the wedding gown and theme for the day is likely to be truly remarkable and stunning.
What I am a fan of is really standing out from the crowd and the more the day melds old traditions, new inspirations & couples favourite things the better.

Of course at the heart of this is the frock!! Thought should be given to the gown expressing individuality and flair. I believe that clothes are creative so if you are a bride-to-be it’s a perfect time to deshatign a spectacularly special outfit incorporating anything meaningful to you. Making that departure from the fashion flock is a sure way to look distinctive and exceptional!
Star gossip -apparently Ben Lee (musician) is getting married in India due to his spiritual beliefs and there will be elephants – that’s what I’m talking about - how brilliant!!

Kirstie

T'is the season..for marriage proposals

I can’t believe my last post was spring and suddenly Christmas is nearly upon us again! - and so is the summer holiday time. This is traditionally a big time for proposals and engagements and it’s even better to be on your holiday as a new bride to be. There is finally time for contemplation and you are able to wile away those lazy summer days looking for inspiration for the perfect wedding dress.

The simple summer beach wedding is more popular than ever and really demands that you choose the gown with the simple cut, the sleek sexy hair style (so your hair doesn’t blow in your face for the outside photos) and no opulent trains to drag in the sand.

That simple summer glamour is always gorgeous and there are so many designers now that have such a variety of chic little numbers that are perfect. Simple structured slim lined gowns in silk or satin are just right and so too are pretty lace or chiffon fabrics in a plain no fuss design. When the wedding gown is simple often the groom is more casual - possibly in light coloured suit and open shirt - reflecting that quintessential Aussie style or relaxed beach look.

If summer is your dream time for the wedding then you will probably need to have a contingency plan for the outside ceremony if the unthink able happens and it actually rains in this drought-ridden environment. One can expect blue sky but there is the possibility of storm clouds – also nice and dramatic in the photos!

But if you are not planning now for the summer months but rather Spring or Winter now that you are on holiday and have some time you can start gathering a style file of all your favourite looks. It’s really fun to cut out inspiring ideas from magazines (like Bride!) and look for all the aspects of your outfit. From hair styles or bridesmaid dresses to flowers for you and the wedding table, you can create your own mood board that will keep you focused as the planning continues.

So happy holidays and lie on the beach with the latest copy of BRIDE out now.

Kirstie