{Bridal Show} Perfect Wedding Guide

This October Bliss took to the runway and beautiful bridal gowns were donned for all to see at the Perfect Wedding Guide's Bridal Show at the Omni Fort Worth.

Real brides blisfully sauntered down the runway in a variety of Bliss's designer lines from Pronovias and Justin Alexander to Allure and Mori Lee.

Oohs and ahhs were shared by all as witnesses reveled in the beauty and intircacies of the bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses.

Bliss Bridal was honroed to take a part in a bridal show featuring DFW's top vendors.

For more images of all the bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses featured, please visit our Pinterest page.

We would love the opportunity to be a part of your big day!
 http://www.pinterest.com/blissbridalfw/pwg-fashion-show/

Sara Gabriel Trunk Show {November 15-16}

We have great news North Texas brides! Our vast collection of  beautiful Sara Gabriel veils and headpieces is about to get even bigger!

November 15th and 16th Bliss Bridal Salon is hosting a Sara Gabriel Trunk Show. The trunk show will feature Sara Gabriel's fabulous Spring 2014 Collection.

Sara Gabriel Veiling & Headpieces offers a line of bridal accessories in fine bridal boutiques around the globe. Each accessory can be customized to fit your dream vision and is individually crafted by talented professionals and packaged in a preservation-quality garment bag or a signature box. Sara Gabriel proudly uses the finest materials- including  Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, glittering rhinestones, and hand-sculpted flowers.

Call Bliss Bridal Salon today to schedule your Sara Gabriel Trunk Show appointment!
817.332.4696

Ghost Stains: Why cleaning your gown after the wedding is so important

Congratulations! You're Married! Now what? After all of the wedding fun and celebrations, there can be stains lurking on your gown that will not materialize for weeks to come. We like to call them Ghost Stains. What is a Ghost Stain you ask? It can be anything from perspiration, to champagne, and even sugar! Many times, you will not be able to see these stains until nature takes its course and they appear out of nowhere.

So what do you do about it? Designate someone to take your gown to the cleaners or your local bridal salon for preservation while you are on your honeymoon. Now I know, most girls don't think they will ever use their gown again and see no need in preserving it, but think twice! Some girls take it and make baby bedding out of it or a christening gown and some girls keep it and use a piece of it on their daughter's gown or bouquet. Our most important point about preservation is that it cleans, presses, packs and preserves the gown for typically less than your local cleaner will charge you just to clean it.


More than likely, you will move within the first year of marriage so having your gown neatly tucked away in a travel box will make it so much easier for transportation and storage and less likely for hubby to ask "why do you need to keep this?!" It will be cleaned so that no Ghost Stains will  appear and should you start to get sentimental later in life, it will be preserved so that you can show it to future generations!


For more information about preserving your gown, please stop by Bliss Bridal Salon. We would love to help keep your gown as beautiful as it was on your special day!

Why a Trunk Show could be THE PLACE to find your gown!

We just came off a whirlwind two weeks of the Mori Lee Trunk Shows and met so many amazing brides! They loved the chance to try on gowns that were usually unavailable which makes them super unique!

What exactly is a trunk show? A trunk show is when a designer sends a selection of gowns to a bridal salon for a weekend from their newest collection. These gowns are sent in so that the bride has additional selections to choose from during her appointment.

If there is a particular designer that you like, this is a great weekend to see a larger sampling of their designs than may typically be available in the salon. The collection of gowns travel around the country for brides to see so they are not available for purchase “off the rack”. Sizes will vary by designer and not every gown in the collection will be included. If there is a particular gown that you are interested in, call ahead to see if it will be available or if it can be requested for you!

Things to remember when going to a trunk show:


•Expect for an appointment to be required as this will be a busy weekend for the salon.

•Be prepared to purchase your gown that day as it may not be available for you to “re-try” and you will want to take pictures once the gown is purchased.

•As the gowns probably arrived late Thursday to the salon, they may not be perfectly pressed due to time constraints, try to keep an open mind with wrinkles.

•Many salons will bring in a representative from the designer to be on hand that weekend and there may be options available this weekend for customization.

We have some exciting shows coming up including designers not currently available in the Fort Worth area!

Here's the link to our events page: http://www.blissfw.com/pages/events.html

Watch for new editions weekly!

The Bliss Girls!

{Thank You Notes} Lauren B

We are always so thrilled to receive pictures from our brides. Lauren sent us a picture from her wedding day and a sweet note that totally made our day! Enjoy!

Hello!

 

I purchased my dress from Bliss back in September of 2012 when I had my October wedding and I just remembered that when I purchased it, y'all mentioned sending pictures of me in on the big day! I've attached an image that I thought represented the dress well!

Thanks again for providing the perfect dress for me! It really was perfect.

 

Lauren

{Fashion Updates} Markets, Designers and New Friends, Oh My!

What a whirlwind weekend at market we had! Dallas Market Center was all a buzz with designers and buyers in all areas of retail. We had to try really hard not to get distracted with all the fun! (still contemplating going back to pick up a few items!)

We had a great time chatting with some old friends, making new ones and a great surprise to meet the wonderful Jaime from Bella Flora in the middle of the day! She popped over to pick up a swatch for one of our projects together!

One fab gal that we had the pleasure of chatting with was our rep from Intuzuri (http://www.intuzuri.com/)! You know we have an obsession with all things from over the pond and the gowns from Intuzuri are the newest addition to our collection! We can't wait to show our brides this fabulous collection of lace gowns with intricate details and one super low back!

Another great find was some gorgeous mother's gowns and we do mean gorgeous! Just look at the beadwork on this one shoulder metallic number! (www.cameronblake.com)

Of course, we stopped in to see Justin Alexander, Sincerity Bridal and Mori Lee. Simple classic styles that Audrey Hepburn would die over, lace and peplum skirts are taking front stage and the bridesmaids gowns are red carpet worthy! We almost ordered one to wear ourselves!

The biggest news of the market is that along with the addition of Intuzuri, we will be offering our brides two new additional designers! Look for upcoming posts with all the details!

Bella Flora: www.bellafloraofdallas.com
Intuzuri Bridal: www.intuzuri.com
MOB/MOG: www.cameronblake.com
Bridal: www.blissfw.com
Sample Sale:  www.blissofftherack.com

{Venue Spotlight} The Ashton Depot, Fort Worth

Ashton Depot Catering & Events

The historic Ashton Depot (originally the Santa Fe Depot) was opened on March 1, 1899 in response to a growing demand for railroad service in Fort Worth. It has both witnessed and contributed to over a century of Texas memories. Built during a time when train lines were expanding cross- country and passenger travel was heavy, the depot served as a relief for nearby stations and a victory in local architectural design. In the early days, passengers traveled for necessity, as trains or wagons were the primary modes of transportation, but by the 1920's, rail stations were “roaring,” as was the rest of the country. Oil was booming, wealth abounded, and people began using train travel for leisure purposes.

In 1938 the depot was renovated and “modernized” as part of an extensive program undertaken by the Fort Worth Union Passenger Station and the Santa Fe Railroad. The station served several lines until 1960, when the Santa Fe became the sole railroad using the facility.  Amtrak operated passenger rail service out of the station between 1973 and 1995. Additionally, the depot was listed both in the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1970.

Set-up with Band

Today, the neoclassical Beaux Arts-Style terminal has been restored to its original beauty and distinctiveness. The original stained glass windows, barrel-vaulted ceilings, and marble floors are stunning, emanating an atmosphere of effortless style and grace. Although the name of the architect remains a mystery, we do know that the structure was built by the contracting firm of Smith and Bardon during the late 1800's.

Now a full service event venue, The Ashton Depot boasts a creative and talented culinary team led by Executive Chef Cesar Gallegos.  Whether you are hosting an engagement party, rehearsal dinner or ceremony and wedding reception, The Ashton Depot is a beautiful and unique choice.

 

Outdoor Ceremony Location

 

 

 

Contact Info: Jillian Gibson, Catering Sales Manager

jillian@THEASHTONDEPOT.COM

http://www.ashtoncatering.com

817.810.9501

{Tips, Tricks, & Advice} The "Cardinal Rules" of Wedding Gown Shopping

Since, wedding gown shopping is in full swing and the busy season is upon us, we thought we'd repost one of the most important pieces of advice for shopping for your wedding gown from "Say Yes to the Dress's", Randy Fenoli!  Here ya go, ladies, listen up!

On a recent episode of Say Yes to the Dress on TLC, Kleinfeld Fashion Director Randy Fenoli offered “The Cardinal Rules of Wedding Dress Shopping.” As simple as these rules may sound, following them can help any bride find her perfect wedding dress with out all the stress.

1) “Don’t try on a dress that is outside of your budget”
A bride will inevitably fall in love with one she cannot afford and will be very disappointed when she can't have it.

2) “Don’t keep secrets from the bridal consultant”
If the bride has already seen something somewhere else that she likes, she should let the store consultant know so she can work with her.

3) “Leave the entourage at home”
It’s ok to bring a friend or family member but the more people a bride brings, the more opinions she will hear and the more confused she might be.

4) “Once you find a dress, stop shopping”
Some brides keep shopping because they are afraid they will miss their “perfect dress.” According to Kleinfeld’s, 90% of the brides who keep shopping actually stick to their original choice.

5) “Don’t get your heart set on a dress you saw in a magazine”
The bride should keep an open mind and try on a few dresses. The one she saw in a magazine might not suit her when she tries it on.

and finally.........

6) “Always wear underwear (when trying on wedding dresses)”

{Venue Spotlight} The Orchard

Hidden in a quiet corner of the DFW metroplex is The Orchard, a new, state of the art venue that will serve as the perfect backdrop for all of life’s special occasions. The Orchard can accommodate a wide range of events including weddings and receptions as well as banquets, proms, anniversaries, birthdays, Bar Mitzvahs, Quinceañeras, dinner dances and many other special events. Whether you are planning a small intimate gathering or a large extravaganza we feel confident that The Orchard will meet all of your needs.

Natalie Pitts Photography

The Orchard is conveniently located 20 minutes northwest of Fort Worth just off Highway 199. Upon arrival you and your guests will travel down a quaint one lane road, across a creek and into the 50 acre pecan orchard. Nestled among these one hundred year old pecan trees sits the simple, yet elegant, venue. The 7,700 square foot reception hall can accommodate guest counts from 50 to 400 and is equipped with a stage, modern video & audio equipment, a full bar, a prep kitchen and many other amenities that will insure your event is a success. The reception hall opens onto a large covered patio, beautifully landscaped lawn and a pergola that is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. We invite you to come take a tour and let us introduce you to the elegance and beauty that is The Orchard.

Jess Barfield Photography

DFW Fine Arts

Bliss Bride, Sally! (Two Blue Shoes Photography)

 You have to check out this gorgeous venue!  Here is the contact info:

website: www.theorchardtx.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/The-Orchard/157084284341222

Phone number: 817.270.4555

{Trends & Style} Sara Gabriel Accessories

We just finished up our Sara Gabriel VIP Trunk Show at the salon and once again, everyone loved the new collection for 2013.  One of our favorite trends we see with Sara's pieces, aside from her stunning veils, headpieces and jewelry, are the versatile sashes that can be worn as a belt, headband, or even as a necklace.

Sara Gabriel Hazel sash/headband can be a beautiful statement necklace as well.

Hazel as a headband

Close-up shot of Hazel as a necklace

Sara Gabriel Gloria Sash/Headband can be worn as a necklace also.

Gloria as a headband

All of Sara Gabriel pieces are handmade in Denver, CO and are sure to add that perfect finishing touch to your wedding day style!  Her accessories would even make a beautiful gift for your bridesmaids!

{Vendor Spotlight} Aves Photography

Today, we are happy to feature the very talented Aves Photography!  Check out this snippet from their fantastic website:

"Fort Worth and Dallas Wedding and Portrait Photographers, Aves Photographic Design can be commissioned to photograph your wedding, bridal, engagement, newborn baby, maternity portraits, high school senior portraits, family, or child's portraits in a modern photojournalistic way. We love to work everywhere in North Texas, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Keller, Arlington, Southlake, Plano, Colleyville, Coppell, Crowley, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Mansfield, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, Flower Mound, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Haltom City, Irving, Lewisville, Midlothian, North Richland Hills, and Waxahachie. We heart destination wedding photography.

Aves Photography is located at 4909 Camp Bowie Blvd in Fort Worth. We are all about the feeling. We love everything modern, vintage, fun, and fresh."

Now for the visual proof of their talent:

If you are still looking for a photographer, we recommend you give them a shout!  Here is their contact info:

Aves Photographic Design

(817) 709-7006

info@avesphotographicdesign.com

www.avesphotographicdesign.com

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AvesPhotography

{Wedding Inspiration} Downton Abbey

Good morning!  Some of the girls here at Bliss are huge fans of the hit show Downton Abbey.  What a beautifully styled show!  So since it is so popular and beautiful, two of our favorite qualities of a good trend ;), we decided to post a little inspiration for all you brides that may want to incorporate its style into your special day!

One of our favorite wedding blogs, Style Me Pretty recently featured a beautiful Downton Abbey-inspired photo shoot and here are some of our faves:

Source: stylemepretty.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Also, did you know you can get married at Highclere Castle in Newbury, UK?  Yes, the castle used as the Grantham household in Downton Abbey can be rented as a wedding venue...when it isn't being filmed of course.  And it does come with quite a rental fee! :)

Photo: Ryan_browne.co.uk

Source: blog.theknot.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: xotheknot.files.wordpress.com via Brandi on Pinterest

Source: xotheknot.files.wordpress.com via Brandi on Pinterest

We also think that Thistle Hill right here in Historic Fort Worth offers a gorgeous Downton Abbey-esque atmosphere and there is no need for a passport or plane ticket!

Source: historicfortworth.org via Brandi on Pinterest