Blogs

Casey Fatchett is a New York City-based photographer with more than 10 years experience photographing weddings. He also recently went through the wedding planning process himself (congrats!), giving him a unique perspective on the wedding industry from both sides of the fence. Here, Casey discusses why you'll save money by booking your vendors early.

So, in case I haven't mentioned it, I have a lot of friends getting married next year… and they all come to me for advice, since I'm in the wedding business (and I'm happy to give my advice!). My number one tip for couples getting married: Don’t wait to book your vendors!

       Photo Credit: Casey Fatchett Photography

Each week, we'll feature wedding music recommendations from Scratch Weddings, the nation's leader with the best wedding DJs at affordable prices. This week's post comes from DJ Von, a San Francisco native with nearly two decades of experience cutting his chops at San Fran hot spots. He has become a go-to DJ in San Francisco for large-scale openings, galas, fundraisers and weddings. He's a master at blending genres, from current pop to obscure classics, and creating an infectious mix of music to keep the dance floor packed. "A couple's wedding day is one of the most memorable days of their lives, and is full of good energy. It's exciting to be a part of that energy by providing the soundtrack for their day."

Photo Credit: Amanda Marie Photography

Paradise Found

I can hardly believe that it’s already October 21st! This entire month has been a whirlwind. Just two weeks ago, I flew back from an amazing trip to the Namale Resort in Fiji. It was the ultimate in total relaxation and getting away from it all. For the first time, I was completely unplugged with no e-mail access on my BlackBerry, no phone, radio, TV or newspapers…and I loved it!

Fiji is a tropical paradise, and the Namale Resort is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen—lush, peaceful and the perfect spot for honeymooners. I met a few honeymooning couples while there, and they loved every minute of their week at Namale. They were a bit fatigued after all their wedding festivities, and Namale’s laid-back, easy vibe; scenic, tucked-away accommodations; and super-friendly staff worked their magic. I fell in love with Fiji, the Namale Resort and the Fijian people, and I'll show you some of my photos from this incredible experience next week. It was truly heaven on earth!

While curating images for our Photo of the Day, we noticed a fun photo trend: Rings in unexpected places! Check out some of the unexpected places photographers put wedding rings.

With food:

Photo Credit: Erica Ferrone Photography

Photo Credit: ZDJ Photography

Photo Credit: Longs Photography

If you love sparkly, embellished dresses, you'll love Pnina Tornai's latest collection! Known for her luxe high-impact designs, Pnina's runway show did not disappoint. These dresses are just as stunning from the back as they are from the front, featuring plunging backs, jewels, ruffles, and more. 

Bridal Guide was invited backstage to get the scoop on the hair and makeup for this collection. We also scored an exclusive interview with the designer herself on her inspiration for this collection. Plus: Watch the full runway show! 

—Kristen O'Gorman Klein

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Henry Roth

@bridalguide: "Love this @rothdesigner gown with black sash-very fun!"
 

Flash sale mecca Gilt.com has partnered with one of our favorite wedding planners, Colin Cowie, to curate their Bridal semi-annual sale! 

Over the next 24 hours, brides can snatch up items with savings up to 60% off, including: Bridal party dresses sorted by color, outfits for pre-wedding events, national deals with vendors like Scratch Weddings, and even localized deals (including a "Wedding in a Box").

Here are some of our favorite steals from the sale:

This gorgeous $1,999 Carolina Herrera Blossom Printed Organza Strapless Gown (originally $4,990) is the epitome of effortless elegance.

This Miguelina Angela lace dress, on sale for $169 (originally $412), is right on-trend this season for your rehearsal dinner.

Summit Entertainment just released some more footage and details about Bella and Edward's big day!

Tell us: Are you excited about Breaking Dawn?

—Kristen O'Gorman Klein

Norma and Gordon Yeager were serious when they vowed, "Til death do we part," back in 1939, the day that Norma graduated from high school.

Photos via KCCI

Last week, the couple was involved in a fatal car accident and rushed to the intensive care unit, but their conditions did not improve. Gordon and Norma were placed holding hands in the same room in the ICU, but they were not responsive. 

At 3:38 P.M., Gordon passed away while still holding Norma's hand. After he stopped breathing, the family was baffled to still see activity on the heart monitor. The nurse explained that essentially, because they were holding hands, her heart was beating through him.

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Alvina Valenta

View more Alvina Valenta in our gown gallery!

left:@bridalguidemag: I love the silver bodice with the subtle sparkle of this @Alvina_Valenta gown!!! right:@bridalguidemag: The origami folds and dainty blooms on this @Alvina_Valenta is DIVINE elegance!