Bridesmaid Trade

A Dress in Dusty Shale

bridesmaidtrade — Thu, 09 May 2013 13:45:49 +0000

We love helping bridesmaids recoup cash and find great dresses for fabulous prices. Occasionally we get a request to help find a dress that we don’t have in our inventory, and when we do, we are always happy to reach out within our networks to see what we can find. Today we’re on the search for a J.Crew bridesmaid dress in a shorter style, Dusty Shale, size 12/14. If you have one, shoot us an email at sales(at)bridesmaidtrade.com, and we’ll explain the details. In the meantime, we were feeling a little poetic this morning… enjoy!

Ode to A Dress in Dusty Shale

Every once in a while, we get a request:

“Help! Bridesmaid Trade! I’m in need of a dress!

A frock that is yellow, a gown that’s pale blue…”

Today it’s a dress, Dusty Shale, from J.Crew.

Size 12/14, a shorter style would be great.

Yes? You’ve got one? Fabulous! Don’t hesitate!

Email us now without further delay.

Sales(at)bridesmaidtrade.com is the way.

You’ll make someone’s day!

You’ll earn cash for your dress!

Now those are things to which everyone can say “Yes!”

We Love Boston: Bringing Back Some Favorites

bridesmaidtrade — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:00:49 +0000

It’s been quite a few crazy days here in Boston. We’re feeling so grateful for all those “helpers,” near and far, who have shown courage and selflessness in the face of many unknowns. While Bridesmaid Trade helps bridesmaids all over the US and Canada buy and sell dresses, we are Boston-based and love this fierce city fiercely. In that spirit, we’re highlighting some posts from the past with Boston front and center. This is one of our favorites on Boston restaurants that are fabulous for bachelorette dinners or events. We hope you’ll check them out soon.

Boston Strong,

Bridesmaid Trade

******************

Organizing a large group for dinner can be difficult—especially when there’s the added stress of wanting to throw the perfect bachelorette party dinner for the bride-to-be. For those of you in the Boston area, we’ve narrowed down the hundreds of amazing restaurants to few top-notch eateries. All accommodate larger parties, many even offering the option for private group dining in a separate or secluded room of the restaurant. Whether dinner is the first part of a long night of debauchery or a low-key bride wants to keep the bachelorette party to a mellow dinner with girlfriends, you can’t go wrong with these!

28 Degrees (South End) Offering American cuisine, 28 Degrees has a lounge-like atmosphere with both traditional tables as well as sofa/coffee table seating. For private groups they use curtains to create a private area.
Artu (North End/Waterfront and Beacon Hill) You practically can’t go wrong with Italian food in the North End even if you tried, but Artu’s small private dining area makes it a great option for hosting a bachelorette party dinner.
Avenue One(Theater District) Located at the Hyatt Regency Boston, Avenue One offers a variety of rooms for private dining groups of all sizes.
Beehive (South End) In the perfect mix of fusion cuisine and comfort food, this casual dining restaurant also features live music in a unique atmosphere.
Cuchi Cuchi(Cambridge) This international cuisine comes in smaller plates making it perfect for “pairing and sharing.” The restaurant itself is designed after the old world beauty and glamour of early Hollywood, making Cuchi Cuchi the perfect place to take your leading lady! If you can’t decide on what to eat, try the highly-recommended fried artichoke hearts or the cucumber gazpacho.
Dali (Somerville) This restaurant and tapas bar is worth the trip to Somerville! And we hear that they even have a special bachelorette routine—we don’t want to ruin the surprise, but it involves kissing a frog!
Jerry Remy’s(Back Bay) In arguably one of the best sports towns in America, how could we not include a sports bar option? “The Grandstand” and the “Dug Out” are two areas of the restaurant perfect for private parties so be sure to ask about them!
The Milky Way (Jamaica Plain) Although there’s still a Milky Way-sized hole in our Hyde Square hearts, we’ve got nothing but love for this neighborhood star. Bella Luna and The Milk Way remain a favorite for delicious pizza, eclectic dance nights, and fancy drinks (or Brick Red on tap, hooray!). Their spacious new digs in the Brewery complex are ideal for larger parties. Extensive schedule, menu, and event planning info are available on their website.
Tangierino (Charlestown) This Moroccan chophouse and tapas bar is a perfect destination for private dining parties! With several private rooms to choose from like “The Sultan Room,” which is made up of private tents, or the “Marrakech Room,” which has it’s own private wine bar, this Charlestown eatery can accommodate your bachelorette party no matter what the size!

With all the amazing restaurants in Boston, we’re sure there are several more options to fit your bachelorette party needs, so let us know where you chose to eat for the bride-to-be’s last hoorah as a single girl!

One-of-a-Kind Marriage Proposals

bridesmaidtrade — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:32:44 +0000

Even if you think a flashy, elaborate proposal is a little over-the-top, you have to admit that someone who plans such a big production for such a simple question is someone who truly cares about the answer. This type of proposal usually has the element of surprise, and often involves witnesses – family and friends who are happy to pitch in with the plan, or even total strangers! It is so fun to see the joy on someone’s face when they realize what is happening. We still get sentimental and excited about the idea of screaming your love from the rooftops, especially if it’s done in a super creative and especially personal way. Here are some pictures and videos we found of completely unique marriage proposals that had us saying “Awwwwww!”:

Rachel Allison and Jaquie Richards met in college and fell in love as Rachel exposed Jaquie to the magic of Harry Potter. When she decided to propose, Rachel had Custom Madecreate a one-of-a-kind Quidditch set (which for all you Muggles out there, is a wizarding sport played by Harry in the books), complete with a golden snitch that opened up to reveal a gorgeous engagement ring. You can read about the rest of this incredible love story on the Custom Made blog!

Isaac writes “On Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012, I told my girlfriend to meet me at my parent’s house for dinner. When she arrived I had stationed my brother to sit her in the back of an open Honda CRV and give her some headphones. He “wanted to play her a song”…What she got instead was the world’s first Live Lip-Dub Proposal.” Amy’s reaction as she sees more and more of her loved ones is so adorable. There have been tons of these lip-dub proposals all over the internet, but they are still so perfect every time!

This woman had no idea she was being proposed to until she saw the photo after the ride! That face she’s making cracks us up! (Image via longsjewelers.com)

Now this one had us in tears. Jason Min filmed this utterly romantic video, complete with a song he wrote, of himself making the trip from NY to Philly to propose to his girlfriend, planting promises and her favorite flowers along the way. (We also love how his now-fiance makes a motion at the end like she is embarrassed to be in her sweats – she is totally surprised and that just adds to the romance with this proposal!)

Matt made a movie trailer to be shown at the local theater while his unsuspecting girlfriend Ginny was seeing a movie with her brother. Matt hired filmmaker Michael Escobar to direct the trailer of himself asking Ginny’s father for permission to marry her, then ran to the theater to present the ring. Without Ginny knowing, he also had their friends and family waiting in the seats behind her to celebrate after the “Yes!”

What is your proposal story?

Mad for Metallics

bridesmaidtrade — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:39:11 +0000

(Image via parade.com)

Are any of our readers fans of The Bachelor? It’s such a guilty pleasure! The finale was a couple of weeks ago, and the show may not be – ahem – very good inspiration for marriage, but that reality TV-brewed romance has plenty of fantastic wedding ideas. Take these metallic dresses worn by the final two girls. The silver and gold were appropriate not only because they reflected the outcome of Sean’s decision (Catherine on the right took home the prize, and poor Lindsay on the left was second place – ouch!), but these dresses were also completely gorgeous on both ladies!

A metallic is a perfect option for a weddings because they can really dazzle up any occasion. It’s easy to imagine using metallic details for a winter wedding because a glittering palate of metallic hues captures the sparkle of the holiday season well. But really, silvers and golds, any shimmering shade will look beautiful at any time of year, especially if you add accents of typically seasonal colors – like dusty pink paired with gold for a Spring wedding. From metallic bridesmaid dresses, to cakes, to shoes, and to tablecloths, this trend is the perfect way to upgrade your wedding from muted to magnificent.

Here is some of our best metallic inspiration from around the web:

(Image via praisewed.com)

(Image via uhullnoivei.blogspot.com)

(Image via Pinterest)

(Image via sweetnovemberevents.blogspot.com)

(Image via modagid.ru)

(Image via Pinterest)

(Image via shefinds.com)

(Image via Pinterest)

One feature of our site is that you can search for a bridesmaid dress by color to easily match your color scheme. There are lots of beautiful options for silver and gold up for sale now. Check out these fabulous looks up for sale now:

This dress has beautiful metallic floral detail and a super-flattering sweetheart neckline. Love it!

How studding do these graphite-clad bridesmaids look? Check out these metallic bridesmaid dresses here.

Which of these metallic looks inspire you?

Mismatched Groomsmen

bridesmaidtrade — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:52:05 +0000

Non-uniform bridesmaids are definitely becoming more and more common on the wedding scene, but what about groomsmen? We think that men should follow suit (pun intended!) and get on board the mismatched train! You have more opportunity to play off the colors in the bridesmaid dresses and jewelry if the groomsmen are free to choose their own styles. No two men have the same personality, so giving the guys a choice when it comes to their ties, shirts, and pants, and jackets is a great way to show off their individuality, but set some ground rules to maintain cohesion. First, when it comes to suits, keep it in the same color family but different cuts, or vice-versa. For accessories like ties or vests, choose a theme – like floral, stripes, or all earth-tone colors – to prevent things from looking too random. Boutonnieres of the same flower in a different shade is another more subtle way of giving up the uniform for the groomsmen. Matching boutonnieres, though, can help tie together otherwise mismatched outfits.

We found some very stylish groomsmen to give you mismatched inspiration. Check them out below:

(Image via capitolromance.com)

(Image via greenweddingshoes.com)

(Image via heaskedisaidyes.blogspot.com)

(Image via blog.boden.co.uk)

(Image via onewed.com )

(Image via iloveswmag.com )

(Image via onewed.com)

Do you think mismatched groomsmen can pull off the look as well as mismatched bridesmaids?

Ombré Wedding Details

bridesmaidtrade — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:57:03 +0000

Ombré is that gorgeous effect of different colors or tones gradually fading into one another. We love this look for hair, and it’s definitely the latest trend for your locks. But ombré looks stunning in so many forms, and is a great idea to add pizzazz to your color scheme. It’s very eye-catching and memorable, and can be incorporated into almost every aspect of your wedding decor. From invitations to decor to food - ombré is perfect for the details of your big day.

Here is some of our ombré inspiration:

(Image via onewed.com)

Ombré doesn’t necessarily have to be different shades of the same color. These tones fading together still count and look beautiful! (Image via Pinterest)

This altar backdrop is an easy DIY project. greenweddingshoes.com has the how-to.

We absolutely adore this alternative to the typical aisle runner. (Image via Tumblr)

This lantern is made with paint swatches. So clever! (Image via glendaloughmanor.com)

(Image via Pinterest)

Ombré bridesmaid dresses are a great way to keep a wedding party cohesive without being uniform. (Image via timduncanevents.com)

An ombré wedding dress is a bold twist on the classic white gown. (Image via storkie.com)

Dip-dying is an easy way to get this style at home. (Image via blog.oumaclothing.com)

Gwen Stefani rocked the ombré look on her big day! (Image via background-pictures.feedio.net)

This technique may look complex, but with a few drops of food coloring into separated bowls of batter and icing, you can easily achieve this effect. (Image via Pinterest)

Now THIS ombré cake styling you may want to leave to a professional baker! (Image via Pinterest)

Parting is such sweet sorrow…so send your guests home with ombré cake! (Image via planmydaynow.com)

Are you a fan of the ombré look?

Creative Wedding Invitations

bridesmaidtrade — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 17:59:58 +0000

When it comes to save-the-dates and wedding invitations, most couples will go with something that simply matches their color scheme. Don’t get us wrong, we love traditional invites too, but sometimes it’s fun to mix it up and pick a totally unique way of asking your loved ones to join in the celebration. Making your cards interactive, edible, artistic, or just down right quirky will really show off your personality and get your guests excited for the big day. Plus, unique cards can still match your color scheme! Check out some of the zany, wonderful save-the-dates and invitations that we’ve compiled:

How cool are these encoded save-the-dates? So modern! (Image via kellanstudios.com)

These balloon invites will really get the party started! (Image via realsimple.com)

This wooden invitation is a great twist on the classic invite. (Image via Pinterest)

This can invitation may be in Greek, but it’s appeal is totally universal. Guests are also instructed to bring the cans to the reception so that they can tie them onto the back of the couple’s car and wish them bon voyage! (Images via ohsobeautifulpaper.com)

This invitation is perfect if you and your partner love photography. (Image via invitationcrush.com)

It doesn’t get much more personal – or fun – than photo booth save-the-dates! (Image via weddingcardz.com)

Mmmm, chocolate is the way to everyone’s heart! This edible invite is so charming. (Image via Pinterest)

Scratch-off save-the-dates are a unique interactive idea. (Image via Pinterest)

Tie the knot! (Image via Pinterest)

All of the wedding info and pictures of the couple are included on this amazing view master save-the-date! (Image via Pinterest)

Are you looking for a unique wedding invite or save-the-date? What are some creative cards that you’ve received?

Ready for Sunshine!

bridesmaidtrade — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:15:16 +0000

We don’t know about you, but here in Boston it’s hard not to dream of sunshine, despite the snow on the ground leftover from the blizzard. We are so excited for spring, and it may just be wishful thinking, but it feels like things are finally starting to thaw out. So, we thought we’d do a tribute to sunshine on the blog today, and post about yellow as a color scheme! It’s such a great choice because yellow is so versatile depending on how you use it and what you pair it with. It can be modern when done with geometric prints and stark contrast colors, like black or navy. And it can be boho-chic with lots of flowers, different shades, and delicate prints. Here are some tips for infusing your wedding day with the sunniest of colors: (All Images via Pinterest)

Decorations Table runners are a great way to add a splash of yellow to your settings. Mixing and matching different prints and shades of yellow will add lots of texture and interest to the table. Play with colored plates, napkins, and even silverware – dip antique forks, knives and spoons into yellow paint to carry the color over. There are also so many stunning yellow flowers to choose from! Sunflowers, tulips, black-eyed susans, daisies and more! Even the humble dandelion can look festive if you dress it up. Use yellow accents like ribbons, glitter, fabric, or vases. We love the idea of using lemons in the centerpieces too!

Cake There are so many ways you can add a burst of yellow to your cake. Consider yellow frosting, or add bright yellow piped accents. Using the yellow flowers from your centerpieces is another way to tie your color scheme in with dessert. You can add a yellow cake topper or scatter yellow-wrapped candies, like taffy, around the cake table.

Clothing and Accessories The groom and his men can wear yellow fabric or floral boutonnieres, while you and your bridesmaids can wear yellow or topaz jewelry and/or yellow hair accessories. We love the idea of all the bridesmaids choosing a different shade of this sunny color for their dress; it will create a great rustic vibe for the wedding party.

Our site has some absolutely gorgeous yellow dress options up for sale. Check them out! Here are some of our picks:

This Chloe & Reese bridesmaid dress is so chic! We love the natural waistline and full skirt.

This Jasmine B2 dress is floor length with one shoulder – so elegant! Those bridesmaids look so beautiful twirling on the dance floor!

Which of these ideas is your favorite? Are you looking to add some sunshine to your wedding?

Voting for Karima and Keith!

bridesmaidtrade — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:49:00 +0000

Today’s post is from Kathryn, a Bridesmaid Trade.com co-founder.

We love a wedding contest, and we especially love it when people we love are in them! For years now, Karima Sefiane has been like a sister to my sister, and I am so happy to be in her cheering section for this contest. The amazing Karima and her also amazing fiancé Keith are finalists for the Northern Virginia Magazine Dream Wedding Giveaway. These are two wonderful people, y’all. You would love to have them over for dinner, and you’d be sad when they left. They are the real deal. Funny, compassionate, courageous, brilliant human beings. And it would just be just THE BEST if they won this wedding.

To vote: Head over to the Northern Virginia Wedding Magazine website and when you get there, vote for Karima and Keith. Their video submission can also be seen on the voting page. You can vote once every 24 hours until March 14th. We hope you’ll check it out, vote, and share it, too! Go Karima and Keith!

Blended Family Weddings

bridesmaidtrade — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:21:58 +0000

Even though a wedding day is about joining together two people, it’s also about joining together two families – and they can come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re walking down the aisle and you’re already a parent, your children play a huge role in such a life-changing event. Sons and daughters can participate in all steps of the wedding process…from the planning, to the ceremony, to the party! We have some tips if you’re looking to incorporate your blended family into your big day.

Have your child help with the planning. Put him or her in charge of an easy-to-make decoration, like gift bags, or stamping napkins with a special monogram. Consult them with ideas for color and theme. Small contributions, like picking out a favorite centerpiece, will make your son or daughter feel more connected to the wedding.
During the actual marriage ceremony, say “family vows.” You and your fiance will exchange rings, then have your child come up and stand with you. You can all promise to love and support each other as a family.
A unity candle, or sand vial, is a great way to symbolize the blending together of a family. It also makes a beautiful momento!
Invite other children to the reception to make the entire celebration feel like a family affair. Your child may feel out of place if they are surrounded by a sea of adults. Kids love party favors, so silly sunglasses or noisemakers will be a big hit with the younger crowd. Another idea is to have your son or daughter throw a bouquet made out of candy, just like the bride will throw her floral bouquet.
Have your child show off their unique talents by performing a musical instrument or reading a poem they’ve written.

Here’s some of our favorite inspiration when it comes to blended family weddings:

(Image via indulgy.com)

Image via bayarea.weddings.com

(Image via offbeatbride.com)

(Image via greenweddingshoes.com)

(Image via Pinterest)

What are some of your ideas for incorporating children into the wedding ceremony and celebration?