Wedding Day Makeup: Should I DIY? Or Go The Professional Route?

I read an interesting tidbit on the royal wedding yesterday: rumor has it that Kate Middleton is doing her own wedding day makeup!

I don't know if I'm as brave as Kate. I may go the professional route, if only because it would be less expensive than stocking up on the makeup I'd need be photo-ready on the big day.

The only reason I'm considering the DIY route is because I'm SUPER picky about my makeup. I want it to be natural but still dramatic, polished but not thick and "cakey." The look I'm going for is something like this:

The stunning Ms. Wilde, via Glamour.com.

I love everything about this look: the contouring of her cheeks (even though she doesn't need it), the matte but fresh-looking skin, the nude lips, the smoky shading around the eyes, even the false lashes. It's dramatic enough to have that "wow" factor, but it doesn't look overwhelming or completely unnatural.

If I do my own makeup, there's a few products I'll just have to have. These are the ones I swear by when I want to look my best:

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer, $32, via smashbox.com

I don't use primer on a daily basis, but I try to keep it on hand for special occasions. Seriously, this stuff is worth its weight in gold! It's a light serum that makes your skin feel like silk. Your makeup (not only your foundation, but also blush, bronzer, and powder) will glide on evenly and will last all day long, promise!

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, $19, via makeupandbeautyblog.com

A dab of Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer will keep your eye makeup in place until you remove it. Your shadow won't crease, your liner won't slide off, and your mascara won't smudge. Plus, it makes the color of your eyeshadow look more rich and vibrant.

Mac Eye Shadow in Knight Divine, $14.50, via  maccosmetics.com

In my opinion, MAC makes the best eye shadow, hands down. I use the "Carbon" shade to line my eyes everyday, so I'd combine "Carbon" with "Knight Divine" for a not-too-vampish smoky eye.

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Facial Moisturizer, $3.99, via Buy.com

This moisturizer helps even out my complexion and gives a little bit of summer color. I recommend using it once or twice daily for two weeks leading up to your wedding. A word of warning: if you over use it, the color will come off on your wash cloth, towel, pillow case, etc.

Also, DON'T use sunscreen or lotion with SPF (like the one above) on your wedding day! I can't stress this enough! The flash from a camera will reflect off the SPF and you'll look positively ghostly in your photographs.

Are you doing your wedding day makeup? What are your must-have products for your big day (or even a night out)?

If I Were Planning The Royal Wedding...

...this would totally how it would go down.



Oh T-Mobile, this fab video almost makes me want to switch cell service providers. Also, I'd be absolutely okay with my wedding party breaking out their best moves during the processional.

Are you excited for the royal wedding? I'll admit, I am! I can't wait to see how Will and Kate's wedding influences wedding trends in the coming seasons.

Confessions Of A Wedding Shoe Addict

Ladies, I have big news... I think I finally found The One. No, I don't mean my handsome cello-playing/gadget-obsessed/humor-loving fiance or the perfect sigh-inducing wedding dress (don't you dare peek, Mr. Nosy Husband-To-Be!!!).

I think found The Shoes.

After buying five--yes, you read that right, FIVE--pairs of high heels, I finally found a pair that (a) I love and (b) look great with my dress. If it seems like I'm slightly obsessed with this one wedding detail, that's because I do, in fact, obsessed with with all sorts of gorgeous footwear.

While I considered several different pairs, one shoe in particular stood out:

Swoon! The Badgley Mischka "Randee" T-Strap, $169.99, via Amazon.

I just couldn't get these shoes out of my head, but I was sure that rich shade of "bordo" would look harsh next to my dress. So instead, I ordered them in nude.

But when I took them to the bridal salon and tried them on with my dress, they didn't coordinate! The nude was too warm next to the silvery beading in my dress. 

After much angst and several more pairs, my brilliant mother suggested I try ordering them in white. But, I said, won't my ivory dress look dirty next to bright white heels? Give it a try, she said, because they may not be a pure white.

Lo and behold, she was right...

Here they are in ivory, also via Amazon.

Imagine my surprise when they turned out to be the perfect shade of ivory! They are the exact same shade of ivory as the fabric swatch of my dress. If you look at the above photo, the actual color is quit close to the tip of the toe, not the brighter rosettes on the t-strap.

So tell me, have you picked your wedding day footwear yet? Do you love your fab shoes as much as I do? Post links in the comments or send me pics!

Gifts for Your Groom...

My own wedding is over a year away, but I've been brainstorming about one very important aspect--the sweet gift I'm gonna get for my groom!

You see, my beloved fiancé is not easy to buy for. If I don't plan ahead, I'll have no idea what to get him when the wedding rolls around.

So here's what I've been thinking...

Dearest Fiancé, I love you but GO AWAY NOW!!

Or you'll lose all back rub privileges for AT LEAST a year! 

Wedding Inspiration: A Fiesta At Carnivale!

Dear readers, it can be tough to choose a venue. Once you have your venue locked in, the style of your wedding  is also limited. We booked a historic mansion for our wedding because we wanted a wedding that is formal and elegant with a bit of vintage flair. I'm really happy about our decision but I can easily imagine us getting married other places too.

One such place is Carnivale in the West Loop.  I l-o-v-e the bright colors and creative lighting. And their private dining menu seriously makes my mouth water! Ropa vieja with crispy plantains? Yes please!

The Samba Room, one of several rooms you can rent for your reception or rehearsal dinner. Photo via carnivalechicago.com

Of course we would have to have a salsa band. Because the venue is so colorful and lively, I would wear sassy little number to match:

Jules by Monique Lhuillier, via brides.com

As you already know, I'm a serious shoe addict. And a short dress calls for a show-stopping pair of shoes. I'd wear heels in Valentino red:

At $695, these Valentino babies are a little out of my price range. But a girl can dream, right?
Photo via http://store.valentino.com.

My lovely bridesmaids would wear short dresses in a variety of brilliant colors that coordinate with the venue. I'm imagining bright blue, red, pink, green, yellow...

Priscilla of Boston, style no. PB401. If ever there was a "wear again"
bridesmaids dress, this is definitely it.

Our champagne toast would be a mojito toast and we would have pictures of sangria on each table for dinner. For dessert, I'd have either classic flan or Caribbean fruit cake soaked in rum.

As for my groom, he would wear a black, slim-fitting one-button suit. I like this one by Armani:

He'd wear a skinny tie and would skip the boutonniere in favor of a square-folded pocket handkerchief.
I say "he," but let's be real--he usually just wears what I want him to wear. Photo via emporioarmani.com.
  

Since I'm half Aruban, our favors would be cigars made from Aruban tobacco for the gentlemen and cocadas (coconut candies) to the ladies.

Yum! Cocadas, cocadas with cloves and brown sugar, and cocadas with condensed milk. Photo via maria-brazil.org.

Sounds like a pretty great party to me! If you could have a wedding re-do, what kind of venue would you choose? Would you go for a totally different style of wedding?

Looky Here... Cute Chicago Save-the-Dates!

Have you picked out your save-the-dates? I love these Chicago-themed cards...

Visit Chicago by Hello Lucky. Don't you adore the cheerful color scheme?

Chicago Lights by Wedding Paper Divas. I like these STDs for mod, evening wedding.

Chicago Cubs Save-the-Dates by Keg Design. For die-hard sports fans, which is almost everyone in Chicago. I'm sure these STDs would be a big hit with your guests too!

Chicago Skyline save-the-dates by erickson design. My personal favorite. I just love the elegant script paired with
the rough sketch of the city.

I haven't picked my save-the-dates yet. I need to get on that! Do you like any of these STDs? What will yours look like?

In Which I Buy A Fabulous Dress And Subsequently Have A Panic Attack

A few days ago, I told you a little about my Adventures in Wedding Dress Shopping. I was hunting for the perfect dress, and I was adamant that I would find one that fits my criteria: it had to be relatively "danceable" dress; white, NOT ivory; a slim-fitting silhouette; not lace but not too modern; and most importantly, a unique and glamorous style that made me feel great.

So how'd I do? Why, it's so nice of you to ask!

Dearest Fiancé, GO AWAY NOW! I mean it!!
Or you'll lose all back rub privileges for AT LEAST a year! 

Wedding Dress Shopping: Not For The Faint of Heart!

Before I went dress shopping, I was sure I had it all figured out. I had looked at hundreds (maybe even thousands) of wedding dresses online. I researched designers, necklines, silhouettes, and fabrics. I thought, this is gonna be easy peasy.

Yours truly in Adorae by Sottero Midgley. It's a beautiful dress and I considered buying it,
but I decided it kinda looked like a gazillion other dresses I tried on.

Here's a little secret: Wedding dress shopping can be oh-so-much fun, but it can also be completely confusing. I know my own taste and I had a definitive idea of the style I was looking for, but it's hard to be decisive when you're trying dress after stunning (really, really STUNNING) dress.

Can't find the designer of this dress, but I suspect it's an Allure number.

Style 8764 by Allure Bridal. The detail on this dress is fantastic! Also, my posture is awful.
Note to self: Work on standing up straight for wedding photos.

My dress, as I had imagined it, would embody glamor in it's simplest form. It would not be over-done or gaudy. It would not overwhelm me with embellishments, embroidery, or layers of fabric.

I certainly didn't want lace or lace-like appliqués (like the above two photos), but I tried on a few lace Allure dresses and I nearly changed my mind. A lace dress does have a certain sweetness that you don't find in other styles. I had also thought I wanted white, or at least diamond white, but not ivory. And lace dresses almost always look better in ivory. (The slightly deeper color gives the fabric more dimensions and the dress a more vintage, classic feel.)

No idea who designed this dress, but it is elegant, isn't it? The simplicity and chic
vintage design reminds me of Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly. And, it has pockets! 

The ball gowns I tried on made me feel like princess, which is a pretty awesome feeling! Yet, I definitely prefer a mermaid or sheath silhouette to a ball gown. I like big, tulle skirts as much as the next girl, but I'm only 5'3" (on a good day!). And short girl + big dress = stumpy looking bride.

Style 8806 by Allure Bridal. The fabric is a lovely, delicate organza, and the style is
both fun and graceful.

I didn't want a dress that was very modern, like the gorgeous Allure gown above. The textured swirls and ruching are what make this dress beautiful, but both are also the trademarks of a modern gown. (For a master class on texture, please see: any dress by Vera Wang.)

A few other requirements for my dress: it has be "dance-able," namely not too heavy or cumbersome; it must not drown my petite figure in pick-ups or heavy layers; and it must make me feel like the prettiest, most glamorous woman in the room.

So I started out my hunt for a dress with seven or eight criteria. And now that I've bought a dress, how close did I come to my imaginary "dream" dress?

You'll have to wait to for my next post to find out! (Sorry to be a tease, but I've got lots more to say about dress shopping, including how I had a major, major freak-out the day after I bought my dress.)

What about you, dear readers? What kind of dress did you shop for? Did you find your "dream" dress or did you fall in love with an entirely different style?

Dress Envy: Over-the-Top Glamor By Zuhair Murad

Ladies, I have some really, really pretty dresses to show you today. Seriously, you're gonna swoon...

Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad had dressed some of the biggest names on the red carpet (Beyonce, J-Lo, Miley Cyrus), so it's no surprise that his 2010 bridal collection is a masterpiece. He isn't a big name in bridal fashion, but he certainly should be!

Go ahead--feast your eyes.

Lilas

Marguerite

Orchidia

Cattleya

Fleur de Lys

Aren't they all gorgeous?! I love the feminine textures and the incredible detailing. The Lilas gown is my favorite, but the Marguerite, which looks oh-so-Grace-Kelly elegant, is a close second. 

Unfortunately, I can't find any information about Zuhair Murad's 2011 bridal line. But I'm still keeping my fingers crossed! He simply must keep designing for brides; his dresses are just too gorgeous to stop!

Would you wear any of these dresses? Which one is your favorite? Are they too much or do you love over-the-top glamor as much as I do?

*All photos by Zuhair Murad, via Fashionbride's Weblog

Introducing: Good Reads for Brides

Check out All Dressed in White: The Irresistible Rise of the American Wedding at Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Carol McD. Wallace's blog is carolwallace.wordpress.com.

Are you going to read All Dressed in White? What's your favorite/most useful wedding book? Can you recommend any books for me to review in future installments of Good Reads for Brides?

Whimsical Wedding Hats, Take 2

By Moire's Millinery, $175, via Brides.com

Apparently the editors over at Brides.com are reading my blog. (I mean, doesn't everybody?) As soon as I posted about wedding hats, they decided to get in on the action. They've featured several to-die-for styles, including this vintage topper:

"Givenchy," by Toni Federici, via Brides.com

Reminiscent of Jackie O, yes? And not overpowering for the bride who doesn't sport large accessories. If you want to see more swoon-worthy wedding hats, head over to Brides.com for the slideshow.

And a quick side note: Did you notice my lovely, new header? A big thanks to my fiancé for all his help in creating it! (He said it looks like a giant bridezilla is taking over city. And now I'm wondering what he was trying to insinuate...)

Anyways, what hair accessories or headpieces are you wearing on your wedding day? Would you rock one of these hats, or are they better left for your Halloween costume?

Shopping For Wedding Vendors: A Few Ways I'm Keeping My Sanity

by Samantha, via Wikimedia Commons

How many wedding photogs are there in Chicago? Only a gazillion or so. How many DJs and bands for hire? Way more than I can count. And reception venues? Don't even get me started.

The metropolitan area of Chicago has, quite literally, thousands of talented and professional vendors who are happy to provide their services at your wedding. Unfortunately, it's your job to sort those vendors to find the ones who are perfect for your budget and style.

Now I'm a persnickety person with an obsessive streak and control issues, so my natural inclination is to spend hours slogging through lists of bakeries, photographers, and officiants. But as I found out rather quickly, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming. I had to figure out ways to shorten the search so here's what I've done so far:

1. Ask your friends. Browse your friends' wedding albums and ask which of their vendors went above and beyond on the big day. Some of them may even have personal connections with vendors (which may translate into discounts!). One of my married friends sent me a link to her online album and the name of her photographer. If she says her photographer was great, then I definitely want to check him out!

2. Narrow your search based on location. If you choose a bakery or florist a few miles from your reception site, they may be willing to waive any delivery fees since the distance is negligible. At the very least, you may be able to negotiate lower fees. And if you choose a photographer who has previously shot weddings at your venue, he may be familiar with the layout, the lighting, and the best spots for portraits. That kind of knowledge will translate into better photos and a better album after the event.

3. Select a few large resource websites to search for vendors. Pick two or three that you like, preferably the ones you find easiest to navigate. You've already tried The Knot, right? I also like Wedding Wire, My Chicago Wedding, Chicago Bridal, and Chicago Style Weddings. Don't try to wade through every vendor catalog on the internet. You will go mad and start pulling your hair out. And you don't want to be a bald, crazy bride, now do you?

4. Throw in the towel and hire a wedding planner. I haven't gotten to this point yet, but I can see why some brides consider their planners a must-have. An event planner has been to a million weddings, dinners, and galas. She can recommend vendors she trusts and can sometimes negotiate lower rates. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me!

How are you searching for and choosing vendors for your wedding? Can you recommend any vendors or websites for me to check out?

Trend Alert: Sophisticated Wedding Hats

A few days ago I wrote about three wedding trends I'm tired of, but here's one trend that makes me swoon! The recent rise of wedding hats is undoubtedly due to the influence of the stylish Kate Middleton and her penchant for elaborate headpieces. A great hat makes for a surprising statement piece as well as a fashion-forward alternative to a fascinator or veil.

Bridal "Belle Epoch" Mini Top Hat, price not listed, House of Nine Designs, via Style Me Pretty

Uffie Miniature Top Hat with Veil, Maison Michel, $322.50, net-a-porter.com, via brides.com

Black cocktail hat with French netting and headband, $88, The Left Bank, via Everything But The Dress

It takes a bold bride to wear an eye-catching hat! Would you wear one of these? How about a wide-brim hat like Bianca Jagger? Or are you a veil-and-fascinator kind of gal?

This Will Be A (Gluten-Free) Cakewalk: Planning A Wedding With Food Allergies

So delish! I'm craving a piece of chocolate cake right now! (Via Style Me Pretty)

First, I should give a shout-out to Chelsea Clinton, who made life a tiny bit easier for gluten-free brides when she planned a gluten-free wedding of her own. Like Chelsea, I have a gluten intolerance. Fortunately I chose a venue well accustomed to catering gluten-free events. The venue consultant assured me that they prepare gluten-free dishes quite frequently and that she would work with me to draw up a dinner menu sans gluten. The cake, however, is a different matter.

Since I cut gluten out of my diet over a year ago, I have a new appreciation for piece of sweet, decadent cake. And if there's one day I want to enjoy an edible slice of heaven, it's my wedding day. Because gluten-free bakeries are harder to come by, I have several options. This could be a difficult choice!

1. I could go full monty and shell out for a big, fancy gluten-free cake. The upside is I could eat as much of it as I want. After all, it's my wedding! I want be able to eat the effing cake! But, and this is a huge downside, a large gluten-free cake will probably come with a big price tag.

Based on a some quick research, I'd estimate that a full-size sheet cake will cost around $150-$200. A regular tiered wedding cake will usually set you back at least $500, so a gluten-free tiered cake will very likely cost upwards of $700 or $800 (gluten-free flours and mixes are often double the cost of regular white flour). There are some aspects of the wedding I'm willing to pay big bucks for, but $800 for flipping cake? That's highway robbery!

2. I could serve regular cake and a gluten-free groom's cake. The added bonus here is that the groom's cake would be virtually free! My own dear mother is a fabulous baker and cake decorator. I don't want to saddle her with the job of making my main wedding cake. She's done it before for other people, and it seriously stresses and exhausts her. And she'll have plenty of other things to do to prepare for the big day. But a groom's cake, a smaller and easier creation, is something she could manage just fine. Still, I'll be a little sad when I have to cut into that beautiful cake and can't have a piece for myself.

3. I could serve a different dessert altogether. I'd need to talk my mother into this. Traditionalist that she is, she thinks our reception will be seriously lacking without a "real" wedding cake. But the brilliant bakers at Swirlz Cupcakes in Lincoln Park make the most yummy gluten-free cupcakes you can imagine. And Nitro Dessert Station offers a mobile ice cream maker, which means you can have fresh, homemade ice cream served at your reception. (I sampled their ice cream at a bridal expo. It was seriously scrumptious!)

What should I do? Should I spring for a gluten-free or should I go with a more creative option? Do you or any of your guests have food allergies? Will you plan a customized menu for your reception?

Need Something Old? What About Something Warm?

It's snowing outside, again. In fact, this month is Chicago's third snowiest February on record. All this snow and chilly weather sends me running to my coziest accessories. Right now, that happens to be the thick scarf wrapped snugly around my neck.

If I had a fall or winter wedding (mine will be in July, 2012), I'd simply have to wear a scarf. In fact, I wear scarves constantly. From October to April, I can't live without 'em.

Vintage Fairy Tale Paisley Folk Scarf, via Omnia Vintage Accessory Shop, $25

How about a vintage scarf for a fall wedding? For sure. This one is such a steal for $25.00. And this gorgeous Art Nouveau paisley with a cream dress? Don't mind if I do! I always love the look of a heavy accessory with a breezy gown.

Foundant Tea Dress, via BHLDN, $600

This beauty is from Anthropologie's new wedding line, BHLDN, just launched on February 14. And in case you're wondering, it's pronounced "beholden."

Are you excited about the BHLDN line? I know I am! Would you wear this chunky scarf or a bold accessory with your wedding ensemble?

9 Ways To Calm Your Nerves Before The Wedding

(Via Keep Calm Ltd.)

I've asked many brides how they felt when they were walking down aisle. The word they most often use is joy. "I just felt so much joy," one bride told me. "It's hard to describe. It was overwhelming."

But brides often feel nervous too. And it's okay if you do. Being nervous doesn't make you a bad bride.

If you feel jittery when the processional begins, it means that you hope you'll remember your vows, and that your bratty two-year-old cousin doesn't start screaming in the midst of those vows. That you're afraid you might cry, that your mascara will run and ruin your perfect makeup. That you want this day will be as wonderful as you've pictured it to be.

If you're a bride that hates being the center of attention or if you're worried you might feel nervous, here are some tips on how to stay calm and enjoy your ceremony:

1. Be prepared. This one goes without saying, but write your vows ahead of time and practice them. Or if you're going the traditional route, read over your vows the night before. Say them aloud a few times so you become comfortable with the rhythm and sound of the phrases.

2. Get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast. How are you supposed to keep a clear head when you're hungry and starving? Exhaustion and low blood sugar will only amplify your nerves.

On the other hand, avoid "uppers" like caffeine and excessive sugar. If you usually have a cup of coffee in the morning, then go head and indulge. But don't consume any more than you normally would. Then same goes for alcohol and rich, greasy food. Or anything else that could irritate your stomach. No one likes a puking bride.

3. Figure out what works best to calm your nerves. Are you the kind of person who needs a few moments of silence to be still and calm? Do you need to "center" yourself? If so, consider slipping away for five minutes while the guests are still finding their seats. Bring a journal to jot down your thoughts or listen to your favorite playlist on your iPod.

Or are you the type who needs to release all the pent-up nervous energy? Does a little activity or movement distract you from any stress you're experiencing? Then pack some music for the pre-ceremony downtime and do a little dance with your bridesmaids to your favorite song. After all, music is an instant mood booster.

4. Opt for a "First Look" photo shoot. Photographers will offer to do a short shoot before the ceremony of you and your fiancé seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day. Personally, I don't want to see my fiance before the walk down the aisle. But I've heard a lot of brides say that having a few quiet minutes with their soon-to-be-husband helped them calm down before the big event.

5. Chew gum, preferably something minty to freshen your breath. The chewing motion helps relax your jaw and neck muscles, which is where a lot of people carry nervous tension. Just make sure to spit it out before the processionals starts!

6. Recruit a bridesmaid to give you a quickie shoulder rub. Nothing works better to relieve tension than a massage, even one that's short and sweet.

7. Visualize the entire ceremony from beginning to end. This is common technique of public speakers, performers, and professional athletes. It will help you focus on the moment at hand and allow you more immediate control over your actions and reactions. Use your imagination to walk through each step of the ceremony. Picture how you will walk down the aisle slowly and gracefully, how you will take your fiancé's hands and say your vows without stumbling on the words.

8. If you are religious or spiritual, pray. This is what my sister did right before she walked down the aisle. And you know what? It worked. She stayed calm, she didn't fumble her vows, and she was able relish every minute of the ceremony. If you're not religious, consider repeating your favorite mantra to yourself. Say it with me: Keep calm and carry on. Rinse and repeat.

9. When in doubt, close your eyes and take three deep breaths.

What do you think? Are you prone to nervousness or stage fright? Do you expect to feel nervous before your vows?

Who's Your Valentine This Year?

On a rainy day, you fill my umbrella (and my heart) with love.

(via FlutterbyeNotes, $2.50)

Happy V-Day, guys! I hope you can give your special someone a sweet gift today, even if it's only a hug! I'm partial to the more sentimental presents, like this adorable card.

So tell me: Who's your valentine this year? And how do you feel about Valentine's Day? Love it? Hate it? Completely forgot about it?

Three Wedding Trends I'm Totally Over

I thought I had it all figured out when I got engaged. I knew just exactly what kind of wedding I wanted. I thought, "Wow, this is gonna be so easy."

Was I ever naive.

Here are three trends I thought I liked but now (after seeing them over and again at weddings, on blogs, in magazines) I simple can't stand.

The Birdcage Veil

I thought I loved, really LOVED, the birdcage veil. It's the veil for the not-so-traditional bride. It's cute, it's coy, it's chic. And I was certain I'd wear one at my own wedding. But since the return of the birdcage, this trend is everywhere, and I'm tired of it.

The Reception Dress

There's nothing more fun than a short, hot dress, and this little Melissa Sweet number (via Priscilla of Boston, $2000) is as fun as they come. But why do you need two wedding dresses? Why not save the hot LWD for your honeymoon? Or showcase it at your bridal shower?

As for me, I just want one dress that makes me feel like a princess or a movie star—preferably both. Besides, your wedding isn't a fashion show or a photo shoot; costume changes are not necessary.

The French Manicure

Yes, it's pretty and it's classic. It's also hopelessly outdated. Besides, even the tiniest chips on the white tips are noticeable. A bright color is more fun, and a matte nude is more modern.

What trends are you tired of? Which trends are must-haves at your wedding?

So Many Fab Shoes! What Pair Will You Wear to Your City Wedding?

Now that my fiance and I have nailed down the date of our wedding (July 2012!!), I'm starting to think about all the details. I bought a gorgeous dress last weekend, so next up is shoes! The only problem? There are so many to choose from! The wedding will be formal, and our colors are black and ivory, so I need evening shoes.

Since I simply adore high heels, I couldn't stand to wear flats. (No offense if you're wearing flats. I love a cute pair of ballet flats, but I'm only 5'3". I'm wearing a floor-length gown, so I definitely want some extra height!) Here are some of my options...

Glitzy and Glam Platforms

Chinese Laundry Hot Hot, via Lori's Shoes, $64

Something about glittery shoes makes me feel like a rockstar. I've seen this pair in person, and they are showstoppers! The color is a very feminine pink champagne, but they're pale enough that they will match with anything.

Black, Jeweled Sandals

Crystal Jeweled Sandal by Martinez Valero, via Amazon, $99.99

I have soft spot for t-straps (so vintage, so sexy!), and the crystal embellishment will coordinate with the my jewelry. And not only will they go with my black/ivory decor, but I can wear them with a lot of other outfits.

Classic, Ladylike Peeptoes

Neva by Nina, via Zappos, $69.97

Now these are shoes for a modern-day Grace Kelly. The white satin is luxurious but the ruffly, floral detail gives them a bit of kick.

Girly, Colorful Heels

Randee by Badgley Mischka, via 6pm, $129.00

This pair are so pretty I can hardly stand it! They look oh-so-romantic in this wine red, which will give your wedding photos a lovely pop of color. (Also available on Amazon.)

I need help! Which pair should I wear?! Which ones are your favorite? Which would you wear with your wedding gown?

Savings Alert: Teeth-Whitening at Laser Center and Med Spa

If you're looking to brighten your smile before the Big Day, I highly recommend checking out today's YouSwoop:

Let's just hope your smile doesn't look like

this on your wedding day.

The Enfuse Laser Center & Med Spa (1645 W North Ave) is offer a 20-minute laser teeth-whitening session for $45 or a 60-minute session for $120. A sweet deal and perfect for brides, right? But it's a one-day only deal, so get it now.

Are you planning to whiten your teeth before you get hitched? Will you invest in laser whitening or rely on the good ol' Crest Whitestrips?

Choosing Your Venue: Three Things to Consider Before You Sign that Contract

The first major step planning your wedding is choosing a venue. And hopefully that venue is a gorgeous space that truly suits you and your fiance, a place where you can envision your wedding from the very beginning.

Once you've established a budget and a rough guest list, it's time to go venue shopping. But before you sign a contract for that special place, here are a few things to consider:

1. Where would it be most convenient to host my wedding? If your family lives in Indiana and your sister is your go-to person for dress shopping and DYI projects, you might want to reconsider that lovely venue in Evanston. Or at least know that location may cause you some extra headaches in the planning process.

2. What style do I hope to achieve at the ceremony and/or reception? More than any other element, your venue can reinforce or undermine the mood or theme of your wedding. If you're the traditional sort, your reception will feel out of place at a downtown loft, no matter how pretty or stylish the loft is. If you get married in a church (particularly the old, stained glass sort), people will assume you're at least moderately religious.

3. Does this venue suit my priorities? Want awesome food at your reception? Book a trendy restaurant. Or would you prefer a huge dance floor? Then a banquet hall or hotel will give you what you want. Better yet, before you go venue shopping, make a list of three things you absolutely want at your wedding. Take that list with you as you visit different sites. It will immediately help you narrow down your options.

Have you picked your venue yet? I've picked mine (more on that later!). If not, what are your three "must-haves" for your ceremony and/or reception site?

Hi there, fellow brides!

Before I get started on all this wedding blogging business, let me introduce myself. My name is Molly, and I'm a Chicago bride!

That's me and my fiancé!

If you're a bride too, then you know exactly what it's like: thrilling, confusing, amazing, intimidating. Really, really intimidating. At first you're just excited to get married, but at next moment, you begin to think, "I have to plan a huge party for how many people? That costs how much?!?"

But we're all in this together, so I want my blog to be a refuge of sanity and a source of ideas for other brides in the Chicago area (and elsewhere!).

So cheers and congrats! I look forward to planning our weddings together!