BravoBride - Susan A. Shapiro's Posts - BridalTweet Wedding Forum & Vendor Directory2024-03-28T19:12:43ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapirohttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/65655611?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://www.bridaltweet.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=1ddiifmbcoyy7&xn_auth=noCyber Monday Christmas Giveaway!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2011-11-28:3145964:BlogPost:4769932011-11-28T23:06:34.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>We have a fabulous giveaway for a couple celebrating their first Christmas together!</strong> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Susabellas" target="_blank" title="personalized wedding items">Susabella</a> (our new sister site!), specializes in handmade ceramics for weddings, baby and the home. They’re giving away this lovely…</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>We have a fabulous giveaway for a couple celebrating their first Christmas together!</strong> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Susabellas" title="personalized wedding items" target="_blank">Susabella</a> (our new sister site!), specializes in handmade ceramics for weddings, baby and the home. They’re giving away this lovely <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87086214/monogramed-first-christmas-ornament-gift" title="first christmas ornament" target="_blank">First Christmas Ornament</a>, choose either the circle or heart and have it personalized just for you. It comes gift boxed and ready to give or keep for yourself. How do you win this sweet piece of art that you’ll cherish for years to come? It’s easy! <strong>To enter just write the initial of your last name on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BravoBride" title="BravoBride Facebook" target="_blank">BravoBride’s Facebook wall</a> and on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SusabellaCeramics#%21/SusabellaCeramics?sk=wall" title="SusabellaCeramics" target="_blank">Susabella’s wall</a>.</strong></p>
<p>The contest ends on Friday, Dec 2nd, 2011 9pm EST time. Happy Cyber Monday!</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73824220?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73824220?profile=original" width="535"/></a></p>Vintage Bride Brooch Bouquet Giveaway!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2011-09-26:3145964:BlogPost:4478512011-09-26T22:03:03.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<p style="text-align: left;">We blogged about the these <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/fabulous-find-vintage-bride-bouquets/" target="_blank">gorgeous bouquets</a> last month and now Kathy from <a href="http://www.vintagebride.biz/" target="_blank">Vintage Bride Keepsake bouquets</a> is offering a $50 gift certificate to one of our lucky BravoBride users. This can be used towards any of her beautiful and one-of-a kind creations or if you don’t see one that matches your wedding theme…</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">We blogged about the these <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/fabulous-find-vintage-bride-bouquets/" target="_blank">gorgeous bouquets</a> last month and now Kathy from <a href="http://www.vintagebride.biz/" target="_blank">Vintage Bride Keepsake bouquets</a> is offering a $50 gift certificate to one of our lucky BravoBride users. This can be used towards any of her beautiful and one-of-a kind creations or if you don’t see one that matches your wedding theme she can customize one for you.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Here’s how to enter, it’s super simple!</strong></p>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Just <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BravoBride" target="_blank">click here to ‘like’ our BravoBride facebook page</a></li>
<li>Write ‘<strong>Enter me in the @BravoBride Vintage Bride Bouquet Giveaway</strong>!’ on our wall and you are entered!</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: left;">If you are already like our Facebook page then just write the giveaway blurb on our wall to be entered.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>The contest will run until this Friday September, 30th 2011 at 9pm EST time</strong> and the lucky winner will be announced. Good luck!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73823167?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73823167?profile=original" width="550"/></a></p>Preowned Wedding Dresses of the Weektag:www.bridaltweet.com,2011-01-31:3145964:BlogPost:2871232011-01-31T04:24:20.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73818047?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73818047?profile=original" width="293"></img></a> We had a lot of beautiful wedding dresses listed for sale this week at amazing prices. You can snag a one of kind $3500 <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/p/allure-couture-37550.html" target="_blank" title="Allure Couture Gown">Allure Couture gown</a> for $650 or a brand new…
<a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73818047?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73818047?profile=original" width="293"/></a>We had a lot of beautiful wedding dresses listed for sale this week at amazing prices. You can snag a one of kind $3500 <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/p/allure-couture-37550.html" title="Allure Couture Gown" target="_blank">Allure Couture gown</a> for $650 or a brand new <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/p/alfred-angelo-801-37535.html" title="alfred angelo wedding dress" target="_blank">Alfred Angelo dress</a> for more than 50% off the purchase price. Please <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/preowned-wedding-dresses-of-the-week-2/" target="_blank">click here</a> to view more of our favorite <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/c/dresses.html" title="used wedding dresses" target="_blank">used wedding dresses</a> recently listed for sale. <br/>5 Reasons to Buy a Used Wedding Gowntag:www.bridaltweet.com,2010-11-22:3145964:BlogPost:2295452010-11-22T21:38:53.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
He asks, “Will you marry me?” The engagement bliss is setting in, and wedding planning is only just the beginning. Most newly engaged couples begin the creative planning stages of their anticipated wedding day within the first week of the engagement. Then reality hits… the wedding budget. <br></br><br></br>After photography, flowers, catering, wedding planning services, the cake, the rings, the groom’s tuxedo, one of most important items at the wedding is the bridal gown. Your dream dress may not be in…
He asks, “Will you marry me?” The engagement bliss is setting in, and wedding planning is only just the beginning. Most newly engaged couples begin the creative planning stages of their anticipated wedding day within the first week of the engagement. Then reality hits… the wedding budget. <br/><br/>After photography, flowers, catering, wedding planning services, the cake, the rings, the groom’s tuxedo, one of most important items at the wedding is the bridal gown. Your dream dress may not be in your budget but if you consider buying a used wedding dress it might fit in your price range after all.<br/><br/>When used comes to mind you may think, “The dress won't be as special,” “The dress has been worn by another bride,” “The dress will not be one of a kind.” This is not the case at all. Here are five great reasons to buy a used wedding dress.<br/><br/><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><span style="font-weight: bold;">No. 5 “Green” Is the New “White”</span><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><br/> <br/>“Green” Is the New “White” when it comes to being environmentally savvy. This is not referring to finding that perfect green wedding dress, this means you are taking an initiative to purchase and own a recycled gown on your wedding day. Buying another woman’s wedding gown and wearing that pre owned dress is a rather intelligent choice.<br/><br/><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><span style="font-weight: bold;">No. 4 You’ll Only Wear it Once</span><br/><br/><br/>You are wearing this dress once. One day, one celebration for all to see. The preowned wedding gown that you are purchasing has only been worn once. <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/c/dresses.html">Used wedding dresses</a> are just as special as never worn before wedding dresses. The gown that you are about to purchase was treated with genuine care because for someone else, like you, that dress was one of the most important aspects of the wedding to the bride.<br/><br/><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><span style="font-weight: bold;">No. 3 The Two Dress Bride</span><br/><br/> <br/>You are a woman who cannot decide on just one dress and rather wear two dresses on your special day. Going the used route seems more logical and practical. If you want a dress change during your wedding and reception a choice of used gowns seems too perfect. <br/><br/><br/><span style="font-weight: bold;">No. 2 People Pleaser</span><br/><br/> <br/>Your mother wants you to wear a conservative ball gown on your wedding day, you really do not want to disappoint your loving and giving mother. You on the other hand want a sexy chic dress to recite your vows in and dance the evening away with your future groom. Finding both wedding gowns at a heavily discounted price because they are used is reason enough to buy new. <br/><br/><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><span style="font-weight: bold;">No. 1 Bride on a Budget</span><br style="font-weight: bold;"/><br/><br/>You want Vera Wang, but cannot even begin to think how you would afford a timeless couture gown. Buy a used signature designer dress at a fraction of the original cost and wow everyone at your wedding. At the end of the night you will not be wishing you could return the over priced lux wedding dress. You bought a used designer gown, dazzled your husband and guests and no one was the wiser. <br/><br/>Win wrappers from Bella Cupcake Couture – sweet!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2010-11-16:3145964:BlogPost:2265722010-11-16T00:00:00.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<a href="http://www.bellacupcakecouture.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73815547?profile=RESIZE_320x320" style="float: right;" width="223"></img> <font size="2">Bella Cupcake Couture</font></a> <font size="2">is the passionate creation of Carrie Middlemiss. After a year of research and talking to cupcake lovers and shop owners, she created stylish textile-inspired cupcake wrappers to hide the crinkly, translucent paper they’re baked in.<br></br><br></br></font>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Carrie wanted something fashionable for the bottom portion of her…</font></p>
<a href="http://www.bellacupcakecouture.com/" target="_blank"><img width="223" style="float: right;" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73815547?profile=RESIZE_320x320"/><font size="2">Bella Cupcake Couture</font></a> <font size="2">is the passionate creation of Carrie Middlemiss. After a year of research and talking to cupcake lovers and shop owners, she created stylish textile-inspired cupcake wrappers to hide the crinkly, translucent paper they’re baked in.<br/><br/></font>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Carrie wanted something fashionable for the bottom portion of her cupcakes and always said “Why should the<br/> frosting have all the limelight?”</font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Bella Cupcake Couture offers posh and chic textile-inspired <a href="http://www.bellacupcakecouture.com/" target="_blank">cupcake wrappers.</a> The boutique-style designs add a touch of sophistication and elegance for any special occasion.</font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>We love Carrie and her beautiful wrappers and she’s giving away 50 of them to one lucky BravoBride user! How do your enter to win? Just <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BravoBride" target="_blank">‘like’ us on Facebook</a>. If you already like us then recommend BravoBride to your friends, let us know you did by posting on our wall and you’ll receive a double entry! Carrie is also offering 25% off all orders to all BravoBride users, just use the code ‘BRAVO’ when checking out. Now that’s a sweet deal!</strong></font></p>5 things to know before buying a used wedding gowntag:www.bridaltweet.com,2010-07-07:3145964:BlogPost:1839662010-07-07T16:51:30.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73811167?profile=original" style="float: right;"></img><p style="text-align: left;">When you start shopping for wedding gowns you may quickly realize how expensive your dream dress is. But not to worry, we have a solution for you! If you don’t want to comprise style because of your budget, a great alternative is to buy a gently <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?cat=%27dresses%27" title="Used Wedding Dress">used wedding dress</a>. Not only is it good for your pocket book, but also it’s an easy way to make your wedding…</p>
<img style="float: right;" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73811167?profile=original"/><p style="text-align: left;">When you start shopping for wedding gowns you may quickly realize how expensive your dream dress is. But not to worry, we have a solution for you! If you don’t want to comprise style because of your budget, a great alternative is to buy a gently <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?cat=%27dresses%27" title="Used Wedding Dress">used wedding dress</a>. Not only is it good for your pocket book, but also it’s an easy way to make your wedding more eco-friendly. We’ve complied a list to help make sure your once loved wedding dress is the right one!</p>
<br/>
<p><strong>1. Compare prices<br/></strong>Compare the seller’s price with the retail price of the item so you’ll know that you’re paying a fair amount. Here are some helpful pricing guidelines:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>A discontinued style of dress should be priced lower than designer items still in stores.</li>
<li>For new items, 25% off the retail price is a good idea.</li>
<li>The older the item, the greater the discount. For a dress that’s five years old or older, for example, 60% off the original retail price<br/>
would be appropriate.</li>
<li>For <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?cat=%27bridal-gown%27">used wedding dresses</a>, we recommend a 50% deduction from the retail price.</li>
</ul>
2. Ask questions <br/><p>Don’t be shy about asking your seller detailed questions about the item you’re interested in, such as:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>When did the seller acquire the item, and did they buy it new or used?</li>
<li>Is there proof that the item is authentic?</li>
<li>Has the dress been altered in any way?</li>
</ul>
3. Get lots of photos <br/><p>Ask the seller to provide photos of the actual dress, not stock images. If possible ask to see the seller’s own wedding photos so you can get an idea of what the dress looks like when it’s being worn.<br/>
You’ll want to be able to see exactly what you are buying. Also ask if there are problems or imperfections with the gown. If there are, ask the seller to take close up photos of the problem areas.<strong><br/></strong></p>
<p><strong><br/></strong></p>
<p><strong>4. Know your seller <br/></strong>Making a large purchase like a wedding gown online can be a bit intimidating. Get to know your seller. She or he should be able to provide you with their contact information such as their name, phone<br/>
number and email address. Don’t just correspond through email, give the seller a call to ask any detailed questions or voice any concerns you may have.</p>
<p><br/></p>
<p><strong>5. Making the payment</strong></p>
<p>This is the most important tip I can give you. Be very careful when making a payment for your gown. There are thousands of scams on the Internet, but it’s easy to protect yourself. We recommend using<br/>
Escrow.com, an online payment service. For a small fee they act as a secure third party to protect the buyer and seller. After the buyer inspects and accepts the gown, the funds are released to the seller.</p>
<p>With these tips you should be well on your way to find the perfect used wedding dress. Remember, not only are you saving money when you buy a pre-owned wedding gown, but you’re also making the Earth-friendly choice to reuse and pass along. And that’s just a little something extra to be happy about when you walk down the aisle.</p>The BravoBride DIY Guidetag:www.bridaltweet.com,2010-07-03:3145964:BlogPost:1832742010-07-03T20:55:59.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<font size="2"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73811163?profile=original" style="float: right;"></img></font> <font size="2">There a lot of great way to cut costs when planning a wedding, while exploring your own creativity. The new weekly BravoBride Guide for a <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/" target="_blank"><strong>DIY Bride</strong></a> is going to show you some fun and easy way to make your big day stand out, without having an enormous budget. Today we are looking an easy way to pick colors for the big day.…<br></br><br></br></font>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<font size="2"><img style="float: right;" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73811163?profile=original"/></font><font size="2">There a lot of great way to cut costs when planning a wedding, while exploring your own creativity. The new weekly BravoBride Guide for a <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/" target="_blank"><strong>DIY Bride</strong></a> is going to show you some fun and easy way to make your big day stand out, without having an enormous budget. Today we are looking an easy way to pick colors for the big day.<br/><br/></font>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Get professional help without a professional price when picking colors for your wedding. Stop into your local paint store or department. Look at the walls of color swatches and pick out ones you like the most. Talk to the sales people on the floor about which colors are popular that season, and which colors go<br/>
best together.<br/><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>Here are four essentials tips:<br/><br/></strong></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>1.</strong> <strong>How many companies produce this color?</strong></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">If it’s just on company putting out a certain blue hue, it’s going to be harder for you to find in the real world. But if you find that multiple producers are all doing a certain shade of blue, then that color is more commonly mass-produced and will<br/>
be easy to procure.<br/><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>2.</strong> <strong>Do these colors match?</strong></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Picking 2 swatches and asking an opinion of the sales people in the paint department if they match might seem silly but it can be very helpful. It is important to keep your colors in the same range to make sure everything matches perfectly. Sometimes the colors may be a single shade off from each other, and the sales person can help you make a perfect match. Or, you can look at the color wheels provided and make sure everything is on the same level. It is important to know whether the color is a <strong>hue, tone, shade, or tint</strong>. So make sure to ask, and write it down on the back of the card. If you need to get anything dyed this will help figure out the best way to do it. <br/><br/><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are some helpful terms:<br/><br/></span></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>Shades</strong> Colors with black added, think autumnal colors<strong><br/> Tones</strong> Colors with white and black added, these colors are often “greyed”<strong><br/>
Hues</strong> Pure colors, primaries<strong><br/>
Tints</strong> Colors with white added, like pastels<br/><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>3. Take a few copies of the color swatches that you like</strong></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">Bring them with you when you go shopping for ribbon or decorations. Leave them in your purse in case you see something you like when you are out shopping. This way you can check to make sure everything is the right color, and not waste time buying and returning things.<br/><br/></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2"><strong>4. Have Fun!</strong></font></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">It can seem important to do everything just right, which can make things frustrating. If you don’t see the color you want, go somewhere else, or ask someone for help. Maybe even pick up a can of tester paint to use!</font></p>
<font size="2"><br/><br/><br/></font>
<br/>
<br/>Garter Troubletag:www.bridaltweet.com,2010-01-27:3145964:BlogPost:1370532010-01-27T16:23:56.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73807407?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
The groom was obviously done trying to impress his father-in-law by this point.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/" target="_blank">Check out the BravoBride blog</a> for daily funny and awkward wedding photos!
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73807407?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
The groom was obviously done trying to impress his father-in-law by this point.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/" target="_blank">Check out the BravoBride blog</a> for daily funny and awkward wedding photos!New Blog Giveaway! Vemayca™ Cosmetic Bagstag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-11-19:3145964:BlogPost:1117102009-11-19T20:32:10.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
I am so excited about our latest giveaway! Vemayca™ cosmetic bags are not only stylish but they are perfect way to stay organized too. Vemayca™ introduces the only cosmetic bag that features an innovative removable Soft Pearl Liner™. Veronica Mayo, a wife, mother and former airline marketing executive who became frustrated on a business trip that her favorite cosmetic bag had become so dirty inside, started Vemayca™. She decided to do something about it, which led her to the idea for the…
I am so excited about our latest giveaway! Vemayca™ cosmetic bags are not only stylish but they are perfect way to stay organized too. Vemayca™ introduces the only cosmetic bag that features an innovative removable Soft Pearl Liner™. Veronica Mayo, a wife, mother and former airline marketing executive who became frustrated on a business trip that her favorite cosmetic bag had become so dirty inside, started Vemayca™. She decided to do something about it, which led her to the idea for the removable Soft Pearl Liner™. At BravoBride we love ideas that help products become not so disposable.<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73805705?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br />
There is no need to worry about makeup residue that gets layered on the inside of your cosmetic bag. Simply replace the Soft Pearl Liner and you are good to go. Busy women and brides everywhere can keep their favorite beauty essentials and personal accessories clean and beautifully organized. These would make terrific bridesmaid or holiday gifts. Vemayca™ has given us bags to giveaway to two lucky BravoBride blog readers! How do you enter to win? It’s easy, just leave a comment on the <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/" target="_blank">BravoBrde.com blog post</a> and let us know why you’d love one of these fabulous bags!Our favorite preowned dress of the week!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-11-12:3145964:BlogPost:1094032009-11-12T05:14:31.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
This week our favorite <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/category/used-wedding-dress-of-the-week/" target="_blank">preowned wedding dress</a> is a Kitty Chen Couture Brier Rose gown. It features embroidered translucent lace over a chiffon all tied together with a sweet bouquet of fabric flowers. The bride describes it as Jane Austen meets the 21st century. For more information and to view detailed images of the gown please…
This week our favorite <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/category/used-wedding-dress-of-the-week/" target="_blank">preowned wedding dress</a> is a Kitty Chen Couture Brier Rose gown. It features embroidered translucent lace over a chiffon all tied together with a sweet bouquet of fabric flowers. The bride describes it as Jane Austen meets the 21st century. For more information and to view detailed images of the gown please <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/ItemViewer.php?iid=%27kitty-chen-couture-brier-rose-22500%27" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73805407?profile=original" alt=""/></p>Wedding Savings Tip - Use an Outdoor Backdroptag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-10-26:3145964:BlogPost:1021212009-10-26T16:10:17.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
If a fancy reception site isn’t in your <a target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?offset=1&ob=3&method=7&dir=DESC" target="_blank">wedding budget</a>, then just take advantage of an outdoor backdrop. A new trend in Providence, Rhode Island is to take advantage of The State House and its sweeping staircases and impressive rotunda to capture a formal wedding photo. Many couples are heading to the gorgeous location between the ceremony…
If a fancy reception site isn’t in your <a href="http://" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?offset=1&ob=3&method=7&dir=DESC" target="_blank">wedding budget</a>, then just take advantage of an outdoor backdrop. A new trend in Providence, Rhode Island is to take advantage of The State House and its sweeping staircases and impressive rotunda to capture a formal wedding photo. Many couples are heading to the gorgeous location between the ceremony and reception to squeeze in some photos with an elegant backdrop.<br />
<br />
Officially, the state doesn’t allow couples to marry or hold receptions at the capitol, but it has embraced the photo concept. The site has become such a desired locale that the state Facilities Department now books the space more than a year in advance, jamming in up to three couples a weekend in the peak wedding months of summer and fall.<br />
<br />
So if you are wanting a memorable, beautiful backdrop for you wedding photos then research locations near your wedding and reception site and find what their policies are on using their location.<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73805302?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
Photo by The Providence Journal/Kathy BorchersWhat to do with your wedding items after the big day!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-08-20:3145964:BlogPost:817142009-08-20T19:00:00.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
If you just got married you might be staring at a closet full of candles, vases and other wedding items that you’ll never use again. Instead of shutting the door and dealing with it later, consider selling your items to another bride. Not only will you be helping her save some money but you can recoup some of your wedding costs, too.<br />
<br />
Online <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/" target="_blank">after-wedding marketplaces</a> are becoming very popular. With the average cost of a wedding now more…
If you just got married you might be staring at a closet full of candles, vases and other wedding items that you’ll never use again. Instead of shutting the door and dealing with it later, consider selling your items to another bride. Not only will you be helping her save some money but you can recoup some of your wedding costs, too.<br />
<br />
Online <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/" target="_blank">after-wedding marketplaces</a> are becoming very popular. With the average cost of a wedding now more than $27,000, a growing number of smart brides are looking to save money but still have the wedding they’ve always wanted. We’ve come up with some helpful tips to help you buy and sell wedding items.<br />
<br />
If you are selling, here are some helpful pricing guidelines:<br />
<br />
• A discontinued style of dress should be priced lower than designer items still in stores.<br />
• For new items, 25% off the retail price is a good idea.<br />
• The older the item, the greater the discount. For <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?cat=%27dresses%27" target="_blank">used wedding dresses</a> that are five years old or older, 60% off the original retail price would be appropriate.<br />
• For worn items, we recommend a 50% deduction from the retail price.<br />
<br />
When you find a buyer for your wedding items remember these important tips:<br />
<br />
• Don’t accept wire transfers, money orders or cashier’s checks. Use only online payment services such as PayPal, or Escrow.com<br />
• If a buyer sends an email saying they have sent payment and/or if you receive a receipt from PayPal, or Escrow.com, check your account to make sure funds were deposited in your account before sending the item.<br />
• Don’t accept payment in excess of your purchase price—this is a huge red flag.<br />
• Always ship an item with insurance and a tracking number.<br />
• Sell locally when possible.<br />
<br />
Be on the alert for signs of a scammer:<br />
<br />
• The buyer is eager to buy immediately without asking any questions about the item.<br />
• Poor spelling and grammar.<br />
• Often have overseas addresses.<br />
• The buyer wants to pay via wire transfer, money order or cashier’s check, and use a third party shipper.<br />
• The buyer is purchasing an item for his family member or friend.<br />
<br />
If you are a buyer we’ve got some helpful ideas for you too<br />
<br />
When buying an item:<br />
• Compare your seller’s price with the retail price of the item, if possible, so you’ll know that you’re paying a fair amount.<br />
• Don’t be shy about asking your seller detailed questions about the item you’re interested in, such as:<br />
<br />
- When did the seller acquire the item, and did they buy it new or used?<br />
- Is there proof that the item is authentic?<br />
- Are there any problems or imperfections with the item?<br />
- If the item is a dress, has it been altered in any way?<br />
- If the item image is a stock photo, ask the seller to take photos of the actual item.<br />
<br />
You should also know the following about the seller:<br />
<br />
• Name<br />
• Street address<br />
• Phone number<br />
• Email address<br />
<br />
When it comes to making payment, use an online payment service like PayPal or Escrow.com. Don’t wire cash, send a money order or a cashier’s check.<br />
<br />
With these tips you should be well on your way to navigating the <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?offset=1&ob=3&method=7&dir=DESC" target="_blank">after-wedding market</a>. Remember, not only are you saving money when you buy or sell pre-owned wedding items but you’re also making the Earth-friendly choice to reuse and pass along. And that’s just a little something extra to be happy about when you walk down the aisle.Introducing BravoBride Boutiques!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-07-14:3145964:BlogPost:588402009-07-14T00:52:54.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
We’re excited to introduce <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/BoutiquesHome.php" target="_blank">BravoBride Boutiques!</a> We created this new section for brides who have more than 10 items to sell and for vendors to list their discounted products. We’ve added new features and a lot of extras that will boost trust with buyers and improve future sales! If you have a bridal store or are just a bride with a lot of items to sell, becoming a BravoBride Boutique is an easy way to make business with…
We’re excited to introduce <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/BoutiquesHome.php" target="_blank">BravoBride Boutiques!</a> We created this new section for brides who have more than 10 items to sell and for vendors to list their discounted products. We’ve added new features and a lot of extras that will boost trust with buyers and improve future sales! If you have a bridal store or are just a bride with a lot of items to sell, becoming a BravoBride Boutique is an easy way to make business with BravoBride even better!<br />
<br />
<b>Here are just a few of our new Boutique features:<br />
</b><br />
* Receive Boutique feedback from buyers<br />
* Create a Boutique profile<br />
* Keep all your items together in one area<br />
* Customize your Boutique with a banner<br />
* Have your own Boutique domain /URL<br />
* And many more!<br />
<br />
<b>We offer two types of boutiques:</b> our Basic Boutique is perfect for sellers just starting out and our Enhanced Boutique offers even more features. Both are an incredible value and best of all, there are still no listing or selling fees on BravoBride! <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/BoutiquesHome.php" target="_blank">Click here to learn more</a> and try a BravoBride Boutique free for month!<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73803619?profile=original" alt="" width="312" height="344"/></p>Unique wedding favors ideas for your big day!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-06-18:3145964:BlogPost:449462009-06-18T18:32:38.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
Favors are a way of showing appreciation to family and friends who have taken the time to share your special day. While grandparents might be delighted to go home with a set of coasters framing your newly married face, everyone else might not be so keen on the idea. Instead of spending time and money on something that is going to be left behind at the reception or thrown out later, treat guests with something unique that ties in with the theme of your wedding or represents you as a couple.…
Favors are a way of showing appreciation to family and friends who have taken the time to share your special day. While grandparents might be delighted to go home with a set of coasters framing your newly married face, everyone else might not be so keen on the idea. Instead of spending time and money on something that is going to be left behind at the reception or thrown out later, treat guests with something unique that ties in with the theme of your wedding or represents you as a couple. These are some of my <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/SearchResults.php?cat=%27favors%27">favorite ideas…</a><br />
<br />
<b>Sweet Treat:</b> Fill and label glass containers with family members’ favorite candies. Pair with a personalized bag or <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/ItemViewer.php?iid=%2750-red-take-out-box-favors-11684%27">take out box</a> and have everyone dig in.<br />
<br />
<b>Local Flavor:</b> Send your guests home with something your area is famous for, whether it be fresh fruit, honey, or jam. If you choose a colorful fruit it can add to your tabletop décor.<br />
<b><br />
Green Gifts:</b> Share your <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/ItemViewer.php?iid=%27-the-gap-reusable-bags-price-reduced-9369%27">love of nature</a> and life with seed packets, potted herbs, or lucky bamboo.<br />
<br />
<b>Summer Souvenir:</b> For warm weather weddings, help your guests stay cool with folding fans. Tie them with ribbon in your wedding colors for a little flair.<br />
<b><br />
Travel Trend:</b> <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/ItemViewer.php?iid=%27chrome-luggage-tags-with-engraved-heart-10737%27">Fashionable luggage tags</a> are a non-traditional and useful item for your jet-setting friends if you are having a destination wedding. They can even double as napkin rings!<br />
<br />
<b>Philanthropic Favor:</b> Share the gift of giving and make a donation in honor of your guests. Craft a little note about the organization and its importance in your life.<br />
<br />
<b>Love Story:</b> Incorporate a part of your love story with your token of appreciation —if you met over a cup of coffee, package the same kind of coffee beans and attach your story.First Ever Give-Away on BravoBride's Blog!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-05-13:3145964:BlogPost:227102009-05-13T03:47:20.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
We are excited to announce our first <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/win-a-missnowmrscom-gift-card/">BravoBride blog</a> give-away! Our friends at MissNowMrs.com were kind enough to send us a gift card to give away to one lucky reader. I have been married for nearly a year and legally I still have my maiden name. I did change my email and business cards to my new last name but I don’t think that quite counts. So if you’re are like me and have put off changing your name because of the…
We are excited to announce our first <a href="http://www.bravobride.com/blog/win-a-missnowmrscom-gift-card/">BravoBride blog</a> give-away! Our friends at MissNowMrs.com were kind enough to send us a gift card to give away to one lucky reader. I have been married for nearly a year and legally I still have my maiden name. I did change my email and business cards to my new last name but I don’t think that quite counts. So if you’re are like me and have put off changing your name because of the hassle, MissNowMrs.com makes it so easy you don’t have an excuse not to. To be entered in the drawing, please leave a comment on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/BravoBridecom/67623083760">our Facebook page</a>. A winner will be chosen randomly on Monday the 18th. Good luck and happy name changing!Tips to Make Your Wedding Eco-Friendlytag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-05-11:3145964:BlogPost:208012009-05-11T02:04:35.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
We live in general heightened awareness about how our daily decisions affect the environment. With all of the hype surrounding environmental problems, it can be difficult to feel like anything we do as individuals will have a substantial impact on the worsening state of our world. Fortunately, with your big day approaching you have countless opportunities to make eco-conscious decisions that will have a lasting effectas your guests take part in the “green” wedding you create using these simple…
We live in general heightened awareness about how our daily decisions affect the environment. With all of the hype surrounding environmental problems, it can be difficult to feel like anything we do as individuals will have a substantial impact on the worsening state of our world. Fortunately, with your big day approaching you have countless opportunities to make eco-conscious decisions that will have a lasting effectas your guests take part in the “green” wedding you create using these simple tips:<br />
<br />
<b>Planning:<br />
</b><br />
Use local vendors, including an organic caterer who uses all local ingredients. This will reduce carbon emissions and support your local economy. Green wedding planners are also growing in popularity throughout the country.<br />
<br />
Rent or buy instead of using disposable dishware and linens. If your organic caterer does not provide this service, this is another small way that you can make a huge impact.<br />
<br />
Recycle everything! This includes mailing out wedding invitations printed on recycled paper, buying gently used wedding items and a used wedding dress, and exchanging rings made of recycled gold and fair-labor gemstones. You can take this a step further and create a wedding website with everything from invitations to directions and photos that all of your guests can access without wasting any paper!<br />
<br />
<b>Ceremony:<br />
</b><br />
Peruse your local farmers markets or organic florist shops for potted plants to add some natural color to your ceremony. When the wedding is over, give these plants away as wedding favors!<br />
<br />
Give wedding favors a new spin by letting each guest choose an environmental charity you will donate to in their name.<br />
<br />
Share your love in the splendor of a natural setting that highlights just how beautiful our planet is. Consider having your ceremony at the beach or a park.<br />
<br />
<b>Honeymoon:</b><br />
<br />
Register for a green honeymoon with an ecotourism site like www.elevatedestinations.com. Feeling guilty about all of those carbon emissions you will use by flying to your honeymoon? Your guests can offset them by planting a tree in your honor! Just visit www.carbonfootprint.com<br />
<br />
<b>Post-wedding:</b><br />
<br />
Keep a digital wedding album. Most photographers use digital cameras nowadays and you can keep up the green trend by reducing the amount of prints you buy and keeping all of your special moments on a computer. Nervous about not having hard copies? Back up your files with a flash drive, DVD, or even create a website for just your pictures!<br />
<br />
Not only will you feel great about throwing a HUGE party with such a small environmental impact, but your guests will take the lessons learned from your wedding and implement them elsewhere. Let’s “pay it forward” with eco-conscious living!New Vendors area on BravoBride - we have free listings!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-04-26:3145964:BlogPost:88422009-04-26T20:56:09.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
Hi Everyone! We recently launched a vendor section on BravoBride. We are opening it up to all states and have free and paid listings. For more information please click here: <a href="https://www.bravobride.com/VendorsLogin.php">https://www.bravobride.com/VendorsLogin.php</a> or send me an email (info@bravobride.com) for our media kit.<br />
<br />
Cheers!<br />
Susan…<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73802841?profile=original" width="150"></img></p>
Hi Everyone! We recently launched a vendor section on BravoBride. We are opening it up to all states and have free and paid listings. For more information please click here: <a href="https://www.bravobride.com/VendorsLogin.php">https://www.bravobride.com/VendorsLogin.php</a> or send me an email (info@bravobride.com) for our media kit.<br />
<br />
Cheers!<br />
Susan<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73802841?profile=original" alt="" width="150" height="136"/></p>Tips to Help Avoid a Wedding Meltdowntag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-04-25:3145964:BlogPost:83672009-04-25T20:47:05.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" height="99" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73802839?profile=original" width="294"></img></p>
<a href="http://bravobride.com">BravoBride</a> is a popular online marketplace where brides and newlyweds can buy and sell new and pre-owned wedding items, from discount designer wedding dresses and jewelry to shoes, favors, reception items and more. The company’s founder, Susan A. Shapiro is here with some tips for grooms on maintaining wedding sanity.<br />
-----------<br />
<br />
You may have seen TV shows where the bride has succumbed to wedding pressure and is…
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73802839?profile=original" alt="" width="294" height="99"/></p>
<a href="http://bravobride.com">BravoBride</a> is a popular online marketplace where brides and newlyweds can buy and sell new and pre-owned wedding items, from discount designer wedding dresses and jewelry to shoes, favors, reception items and more. The company’s founder, Susan A. Shapiro is here with some tips for grooms on maintaining wedding sanity.<br />
-----------<br />
<br />
You may have seen TV shows where the bride has succumbed to wedding pressure and is busy screaming at her bridesmaids while crying about the fact that she doesn’t like her wedding bouquet and her dress is too tight. Hopefully your bride won’t have a meltdown this extreme but most brides are normal women who become a bit wedding-crazed. Don’t worry guys, it won’t last forever but here are a few tips to keep your bride happy during the wedding planning process.<br />
<br />
<b>Try to help with the wedding planning, even if it’s just a little</b><br />
I love my husband dearly but wedding planning was not on the top of his list of fun things to do. I realize this is the case for most men. It’s understandable that talking about flowers, wedding colors and what your groomsmen will wear isn’t nearly as exciting as watching football on Sunday. One great way to help your bride feel less stressed is to show some interest in the wedding. The wedding process can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience if your fiancée feels like she’s doing everything herself. When one of our friends was getting married they scheduled one night a week, every week, for wedding planning. Not only can you really focus on the wedding but it also helps prevent you from talking about it all the time. Little things like this will take some of the stress off your bride and let her know that you realize how special and important your big day really is.<br />
<br />
<b>Don’t ever tell your bride that her wedding dress is just a dress</b><br />
The wedding dress is one of the most important parts of the wedding and it is probably the biggest clothing decision your fiancée will ever make in her life. Because of this she may be stressed about the expense of her dream gown. Encourage her to visit websites that sell <a href="http://bravobride.com">pre-owned wedding gowns</a> where she can find a designer dress at a fraction of the price. If your bride decides she doesn’t like her gown and wants to buy another one or if she’s having a nervous breakdown because her seamstress didn’t alter it correctly, she’s not crazy, she’s just on wedding overload. Advise her to take a step back and realize no matter what happens she will be a gorgeous bride.<br />
<br />
<b>Give your bride some encouragement</b><br />
As your wedding date draws closer your fiancée may be closer to having a wedding meltdown. Make sure to let her know that all her planning is appreciated. You can do this by simply cooking a meal, taking her out for dinner or just saying a simple thank you. Thoughtful things like that can mean so much.<br />
<br />
<b>She won’t always be Bridezilla</b><br />
Planning a wedding is unlike any other party you’ve ever thrown. The stress of a wedding might make your fiancée act like she never has before. Don’t worry, she hasn’t completely lost her mind, she’s just a bride and it will pass. After the cake has been cut and the wedding flowers have wilted, she’ll be back to her old self in no time. Then you can finally go back to watching the game without talking about the wedding.Money Saving Wedding Tips!tag:www.bridaltweet.com,2009-04-16:3145964:BlogPost:11112009-04-16T04:30:00.000ZBravoBride - Susan A. Shapirohttps://www.bridaltweet.com/profile/SusanAlexanderShapiro
<b>Wedding Attire</b><br />
<br />
Most of the big bridal shops have huge sales once a year, which are typically held at hotels or other venues like wedding shows. Look in your local paper or ask a wedding planner to find out what time of the year the sales are held.<br />
<br />
Think about looking in unconventional places to buy bridesmaids gowns. Go shopping for them during prom season and after New Years Eve at department stores or online. A bridesmaid's gown doesn't have to come from a bridal shop.<br />
<br />
Many menswear…
<b>Wedding Attire</b><br />
<br />
Most of the big bridal shops have huge sales once a year, which are typically held at hotels or other venues like wedding shows. Look in your local paper or ask a wedding planner to find out what time of the year the sales are held.<br />
<br />
Think about looking in unconventional places to buy bridesmaids gowns. Go shopping for them during prom season and after New Years Eve at department stores or online. A bridesmaid's gown doesn't have to come from a bridal shop.<br />
<br />
Many menswear shops will let your groom rent his tuxedo for free or provide a discount if his groomsmen rent their tuxes there.<br />
<br />
<b>Invitations</b><br />
<br />
Save postage and additional paper cost on your wedding invitations by forgoing the inner envelope reply card and asking guests to reply online or by the telephone.<br />
<br />
Avoid oversized or bulky invitations since this greatly increases your postage costs.<br />
<br />
Skip ordering the reception cards, have the reception information printed on the bottom of the invitation.<br />
<br />
Instead of paying extra for your invitations to arrive assembled, buy a few bottles of wine, gather friends and have an invitation assembly party! Just don’t spill the wine on your invitations by accident.<br />
<br />
<b>Flowers</b><br />
<br />
Having flowers flown in will raise your costs so only use only in season and readily available flowers.<br />
<br />
To get the best prices, order your flowers from an online wholesaler. Keep in mind, however, that you will be responsible for all of the preparation, trimming and storing them, as well as arranging the flowers the day of the wedding.<br />
<br />
<b>Cake<br />
</b><br />
Buy a smaller decorated cake for wedding photos, and have a plain sheet cake in the kitchen to serve guests. On average, twenty percent of guests don’t eat wedding cake.<br />
<br />
Choosing butter cream or cream cheese instead of expensive fondant is another way to save money on your cake.<br />
<br />
<b>Reception & Ceremony</b><br />
<br />
Talk to your favorite restaurant to see how much it would cost to rent a private room or even the whole place. This is an option that works best during non-peak hours, as the restaurant might not want to lose their busy weekend crowd.<br />
<br />
Avoid planning your event during typically busy times like June or around<br />
Valentine’s Day. During the “off season", many places will work with you on the price.<br />
<br />
Earn frequent flyer miles for your honeymoon by paying wedding costs with a credit card. Just make sure to pay the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.<br />
<br />
Find one location for your ceremony and reception to avoid having to provide transportation between venues.<br />
<br />
Skip the champagne and let guests toast with what they are already drinking.<br />
<br />
Reduce the length of your reception, and don't announce a last call for drinks.<br />
<br />
Book in advance since last minute bookings are usually more expensive due to the extra work involved to coordinate everything.<br />
<br />
Hire a student quartet to play during your ceremony or cocktail hour. Check with local colleges and universities.<br />
<br />
For inexpensive wedding favors, bake cookies or make your own sachets filled with Jordan almonds.<br />
<br />
Using an online budget tracker to keep your wedding finances in order and help control overspending.<br />
<br />
It costs merchants an average of 2% (or more) to process a credit card transaction so pay cash for all or part of the more expensive components of the wedding and ask for a cash discount.<br />
-----<br />
To buy and sell pre-owned wedding items visit http://www.bravobride.com/