Welcome back to your weekly “Dream Dress for Less” where we feature gorgeous wedding gowns under $1,500. It takes some digging, but they do exist. Let us do the legwork so you can relax and enjoy one of the most wonderful times of your life. Take a look at this week’s find:

J.Crew is making waves right now with the debut of their new bridal collection as well as the big news that they now carry wedding gowns in the store. Brides, rejoice. You no longer have to wait for the gown to arrive in the mail to try it on–you can make an appointment at the NorthPark location to try on the sample gowns and make your decision from there. We peeked in the “brides only” area of the store last week and there’s a special fitting room dedicated to the brides and her wedding party. Yes, they have their line of popular bridesmaids dresses, too. To celebrate, we chose the Karlie ball gown as today’s Dream Dress for Less. The elegant princess dress is made of silk dupioni (which, according to J.Crew is “known for its unique lustre and subtly textured finish”). This simple silhouette is perfect for an accessory lover who wants to pile on layers of pearls or don a showstopping statement necklace. You can get creative with a fun veil or headpiece or add a pop of color with some bold shoes. Either way, you’ll feel like a princess bride. The dress is available for $1,150.

The post Dream Dress for Less: A J.Crew Gown for $1,150 appeared first on D Weddings.

As it turns out, Hayley Stephens’ birthday just happens to be a day that most everyone in Dallas celebrates. (Or at least recognizes.) So on St. Paddy’s Day last year, she and her girlfriends donned green and planned to spend the day toasting to the Irish and, of course, her birthday.

Little did Hayley know that her fiancé and boyfriend of three years, Brett Walley, was planning another celebration for them that same day. The couple had shopped for engagement rings together, and he had a general idea about what she liked. However, it wasn’t until Hayley spotted the perfect ring, naturally, that Brett felt it was the perfect time to propose. The catch: Hayley works for a designer inside of the World Trade Center. That “perfect ring” was just steps away from her office. It would be quite difficult for Brett to get the ring without Hayley noticing her fiance’ walking by.

Somehow, the day before the proposal, Brett super-sleuthed his way past Hayley, purchased the ring, and prepared his marriage proposal. Brett wanted to make sure their parents were involved in the experience in order to honor their longtime marriages that have served as inspiration for both of their families. Nervously and excitedly, with family situated nearby the chosen proposal location, he popped the question. Once he heard “yes,” the celebration of their engagement, Hayley’s birthday, and St. Patrick’s Day commenced.

Brett, a native of Plano and graduate of St. Edwards University, is manager of midstream finance at Regency Energy Partners in Dallas. Hayley, a native of Arlington, graduated from Texas Tech University and is a wholesale sales representative at Silkroute International-Dallas World Trade Center. Hayley and Brett will be married in front of family and friends on April 5 in Cozumel, Mexico, followed by a honeymoon to Italy.

The post Engaged: Hayley Stephens and Brett Walley appeared first on D Weddings.

What better way to round out the past month’s frenzy of sample sales than with Warren Barrón‘s sale this Sunday, January 26 from noon to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary to shop designers such as Austin Scarlett, Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, Lela Rose, Marchesa, and Ulla-Maija at a major discount. We got word that this gorgeous Monique gown (pictured) will be up to 60 percent off. (Are you salivating, yet?) Mothers of the bride and groom can shop evening gown designs from Kevan Hall, Austin Scarlett, and Peter Langer starting at 40 percent off.

For those of you who are newly engaged or have never shopped a sample sale, here are some great tips:

• A sample is a gown that has been hanging in the store for brides to try on before they order from the designer. It is usually a universal sample size, so it may not fit perfectly. (See the next tip). The reason stores have sample sales is to make room for the next season’s gowns. But, guess what? No one will ever know it’s a sample or from a previous season.

• Remember that alterations are not included in the gown purchase. So, use your imagination when you try on the gown. It will fit better once you have it altered to your size.

• Do your research. You’ll have to go in knowing what you want because you have to purchase the gown that day. So, don’t expect to be able to try on and think about it. Be ready to buy!

Warren Barron is located at 6731 Snider Plaza. 214-526-8400.

The post Save the Date: Warren Barrón Sample Sale Is This Sunday! appeared first on D Weddings.

A gown from David Tutera for Mon Cheri’s collection.

Celebrity wedding planner, book author, TV personality, and gown designer David Tutera is making his way to Dallas this weekend. Meet him and try on the line he designs for Mon Cheri at StarDust Celebrations on Saturday, January 25 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tutera will be on hand to personally style brides in his collection. (Talk about a celebrity-worthy experience!)

Wait, but Mon Cheri is only carried at StarDust’s sister store LuLu’s, right? Yes, but because the star is making an appearance, they’ve moved the trunk show to StarDust. (So, don’t show up to LuLu’s!) To reserve your appointment with the My Fair Wedding star, call 972-781-1619, ext. 223. Please note that there is a $100 consulting fee to book your appointment. The amount will go towards your dress purchase. The bridal appointments are one hour with a 15 minute consultation with Tutera. StarDust is asking you limit your entourage to three people.

Can’t swing the Tutera personal appearance but you still want to check out the Mon Cheri line? No worries. You can still shop the trunk show on Friday, Saturday before 1:00 p.m., and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. No appointment is necessary. 6464 West Plano Parkway, Plano. 972-781-1619.

The post Meet Celebrity Wedding Planner David Tutera at StarDust Celebrations This Saturday appeared first on D Weddings.

This couple met during their senior year at Highland Park High School and began dating shortly after.  Ten blissful years later, Robert got down on one knee in Emily’s favorite church during a romantic Maui getaway. Emily happily accepted and the pair began planning their destination wedding in Mexico.

The beautiful Cabo San Lucas site was complimented by candlelight, hydrangeas, peonies, and roses. All in soft pink and champagne tones. Some of the bride and groom’s most cherished memories include Emily’s father’s toast, the stunning fireworks, and the attendance of their flower girl, Isabella. Isabella is the niece of Emily’s best friend, Elizabeth, who passed away in 2006. Elizabeth’s father was also in attendance and offered the prayer before dinner. The bride describes this as a moment that truly took everyone’s breath away.

Ceremony Site: One & Only Palmilla, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Photographer: Chris+Lynn Photography
Stationer: The Mathes Collection
Bridal Gown Designer: Vera Wang
Bridal Gown Retailer: Warron Barron
Hair &Makeup: Suzanne Morel
Groom’s Attire: Hickey Freeman Custom
Bridesmaid Dresses Designer: Adrianna Papell
Bridesmaid Dresses Retailer: Nordstrom
Flowers: Elena Damy Floral
Reception Venue: One & Only Palmilla
Wedding Cake: One & Only Palmilla
Groom’s Cake: One & Only Palmilla
Caterer: One & Only Palmilla
Transportation: Exclusive Incentives
Entertainment: The Mars Hill Band
Videographer: Angel Zapien
Lighting: Oxten
Wedding Rentals: Del Cabo Events
Wedding Planner: TSA Groups, LLC

The post Emily Guy & Robert Hill appeared first on D Weddings.

Bouquet from the wedding of Angela Bates and Matthew Keepman.

What are we loving right now? Yep, you guessed it: bouquets. We’re currently obsessed with a few recent pins and we can’t stop thinking about the earthy goodness, green and pink hues, and rustic elements. Our Pinterest page is a great place to start if you haven’t started researching your flower and decor wishes. Tip: Go to your vendor meetings prepared. Even if it’s just for an informative meeting and quote, you want to try to give the florist or wedding designer as much information as possible about your needs and wants. If you know you want peonies incorporated in your decor, let them know that. It will determine the start of your floral budget.

Pinning ideas of bouquets will also help your floral designer know what kinds of designs you’re attracted to. For instance, if you have your heart set on a peony, but want to change it up a bit, try the astilbe flower. It adds some depth and texture and an unexpected twist. By bringing in a picture of this bouquet, you’re giving your vendors a great place to start.

For more bouquet and flower inspiration, visit our Pinterest page.

The post What We’re Pinning: Bouquets, Bouquets, Bouquets appeared first on D Weddings.

Although both Lisa Wynne and Peter Alcorn grew up in Fort Worth, their first brief meeting was in Dallas while both were studying at SMU. Fate finally kept them together for good, though, when the two reconnected at a mutual friend’s wedding in the spring of 2011, and the pair was engaged before the end of the year. The two said “I do” on September 8, 2012, during a romantic ceremony at All Saints Episcopal Church, and their reception at The Fort Worth Club featured timeless, elegant details, including all-white, lacquered furniture; blush-toned flowers; and candlelight. Lisa and Peter spent their honeymoon traveling around Tuscany, Florence, and Lake Como, Italy.

Ceremony Site: All Saints Episcopal Church
Photographer/Studio: Crystal Williamson Photography
Bridal Gown Designer: Marchesa
Bridal Gown Retailer: Warren Barrón
Hair & Makeup: Christy Robare; Lenore Caulton-Downey
Bridesmaids Dresses Designer: Amsale
Flowers: John Holstead, 21 Parc Floral & Design
Reception Site: The Fort Worth Club
Caterer: The Fort Worth Club
Band: Bulletproof Brass Band
Wedding Rentals: Global Views
Wedding Planner: Kathy Ellis and Sandra Hollander, The Current Event
Wedding Designer: Frederick Rayner and David Gebhart, Global Views
John Holstead, 21 Parc Floral & Design

The post Lisa Wynne & Peter Alcorn appeared first on D Weddings.

Photo by Frisco Photography.

Thanks to Sarah Smith Choate for this week’s wedding advice:

“Although having a wedding planner may not fall within your budget, I would highly suggest hiring a day of wedding coordinator. It took so much pressure off myself, our parents, and our bridal party. I was super relaxed on my wedding day – which I did not expect! Having someone worry over the small details was worth it!”

The post Advice From a Bride: Consider a Wedding Planner appeared first on D Weddings.

See the Watters collection at StarDust Celebrations.

Trunk shows are a great way to see more of a designer’s dresses than are normally carried in a store. You’ll have more to choose from, so don’t miss out! Click the links below for all the details.

Essense of Australia Trunk Show at Bridal Boutique

Mori Lee Trunk Show at Terry Costa

Watters Trunk Show at StarDust Celebrations

The post Trunk Show Scoop: Essense of Australia, Mori Lee, and Watters appeared first on D Weddings.

Welcome back to your weekly “Dream Dress for Less” where we feature gorgeous wedding gowns under $1,500. It takes some digging, but they do exist. Let us do the legwork so you can relax and enjoy one of the most wonderful times of your life. Take a look at this week’s find:

The design collaborations for Anthropologie’s sister site BHLDN just keep getting better and better. Never thought you could own a Badgley Mischka gown for a Dream Dress for Less price? Think again. The Elisa gown from the renowned design duo features illusion cap sleeves with a delicate bead work pattern. The floral detail under the bust line adds something special to the silhouette. And, you can file this gown under the wearable category: The flowing skirt is perfect for all body types. We see a bride donning a rose crown or flower in her loosely pinned up chignon. Click here to buy the dress for $1,200.

The post Dream Dress for Less: A Badgley Mischka Gown for BHLDN for $1,200 appeared first on D Weddings.

Photo by Thisbe Grace Photography.

Lara Sorokolit and William Francis can thank their mutual friend for introducing them. Her childhood best friend from Forth Worth went to the University of Oklahoma with Will. The pair started hanging out the summer after they graduated college. Will invited Lara to a private Jerry Jeff Walker concert at the Dallas Country Club and now six years later, that’s where they will marry. Lara calls it a “full circle moment.”

For the big proposal Will decided to take inspiration from his father. He led Lara to the bridge in Lakeside Park in Highland Park, where his father proposed to his mother. Their family calls it “engagement bridge” and Will wanted to continue the tradition. After Will proposed, he surprised Lara with a party at Deedie and Rusty Rose’s Pump House where her friends from California and New York City flew in for the occasion. They toasted to their future together with “lots of champagne.”

Lara studied at the University of California, Los Angeles and Will earned his degree from the University of Oklahoma. Lara is Vice President of Oil and Gas Lending at Union Bank. Will is Managing Member at Incline Resources, LLC. Lara and Will are planning a ceremony and reception at The Dallas Country Club on May 17, 2014.

The post Engaged: Lara Sorokolit and William Francis appeared first on D Weddings.

Remember our Hitched in a Hurry bride Karley Kiker? The former People Newspapers reporter and D Magazine intern planned a wedding in four short (often-times-stressed) months and wrote a weekly blog on BridalBuzz about her experience. But through it all, she kept a cool head and a full heart and knew that it would all fall into place. But, that’s not to say there weren’t some learning curves along the way. She has complied those tips, tricks, and timelines into a helpful book called Hitched in a Hurry: The ultimate how-to for a speedy “I do” aimed at brides who are planning a wedding in fewer than six months. (They may say you’re crazy, but you can do it.) The book will be available in late March.

Other than tools and charts to help ease the planning process, Karley offers up what she calls “real talk” advice throughout the book to help brides keep the planning process in perspective. In her experience, it’s not just about the decor, dress, and venue, but it’s about the person you are marrying and the relationship you’re fostering.

Stay tuned on BridalBuzz for more news regarding the release of the book and a sneak preview of what’s inside.

The post Former BridalBuzz Blogger Karley Kiker Announces Plans for Hitched in a Hurry Book appeared first on D Weddings.

A custom cake designed by The Cake Guys.

Thanks to Chad Fitzgerald, owner of The Cake Guys, for answering this week’s reader question:

What are some tips I need to keep in mind when selecting a cake for my upcoming wedding? There are so many options I’m not sure where to start!

1. Reviews and Recommendations

Nothing speaks for itself more than customer’s reviews from those who have experienced the entire process. For instance, you can check out reviews on Wedding Wire.

2. Awards and Accolades

When companies win recognition by surpassing a set of expectations in their competitive field, it is an indication of hard work, a dedication to quality, and a passion to set industry standards. Recognition also is a great indication that the company is keeping pace within its respective industry. We are one of the few bakeries in DFW that are recognized nationally and continue to be on the cutting edge of the industry.

3. Price

The number one question on any bride’s mind – price. Make sure to examine what you are getting with your order, not just the “cost per serving.” Inquire about the number of tiers, fake cakes (known as faux cakes), cake and icing flavor, décor and design. Each of these elements should be accounted for in your cake bid. Keep in mind that the average price per cake slice in the Dallas/Fort Worth area is about $5.55 per serving for bridal cake (nine top bakeries’ base prices). Also, remember that the price should not be the bottom line, because there are ways to cut costs and still get the baker you want. Find out which extra items are included and determine if those items are a priority for your wedding cake.Whatever you do, don’t let the price be the only determining factor for your cake vendor choice. Remember: “Good cake ain’t cheap, and cheap cake ain’t good!

4. Taste

Most bakers do, and should, offer free cake tastings. We suggest if you do not enjoy taste of the cake, immediately cross that bakery off your list without regard to the deal. Remember, the cake is for your guests and it is a center point of all receptions. How many times have you heard, “It sure was pretty, but tasted horrible!”? Do not let that be part of your guests’ experience at your wedding.

5. Cake Servings

How much cake do you really need? Some bakers will try to oversell the amount of cake necessary. Consider your guests’ appetites, if you are serving a full dinner and/or alcohol, as well. A very good rule of thumb is one piece of cake for each guest between the bridal and groom’s cake, if you choose to have a groom’s cake. For example: If you expect 200 guests and each guest receives a single slice, then the bridal cake can account for 140 slices and 60-70 slices of the groom’s cake. But always make sure you are comfortable with the amount of cake and the budget. Some brides do not mind having leftover cake, but it can save a significant amount of money to consider how much cake is needed.

6. To Faux or not to Faux

Fake (faux) cakes, are necessary in most instances. Fake cakes offer the opportunity to have a larger cake without spending extra money on excess cake portions. Fake cakes are very cost effective; however, some bakers’ fakes are almost as expensive as real cakes. We use fakes not just on the bottom tier, but throughout.Your cake can have a fake second tier and bottom tier if it helps youaccommodate your guests. More importantly, it helps you get a larger cake with less wallet!

The post Ask The Expert: Seven Tips to Remember When Choosing a Wedding Cake appeared first on D Weddings.

These high school sweethearts began dating on Valentine’s Day of their sophomore year. Jacob boldly asked Devan to be his girlfriend in front of the whole school on a TV gram. Through college, they maintained a long distance relationship between Austin and San Antonio. Jacob proposed with Devan’s grandmother’s ring just before leaving for the Marine Corps their senior year. Jacob is a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps and Devan is an instructor at Emler Swim School.

The bride’s personal style is very simple and elegant so she carefully selected neutral details for the special day. This palette also allowed the groom’s formal uniform to stand out. The couple really appreciated that most of their guests traveled to Dallas for their celebration and that their photographer, On Location Portraiture, captured the joy everyone felt that day.

Vendors

Ceremony Site: The Grand Hotel McKinney, TX
Photographer: On Location Portraiture
Paper Products: minted.com
Bridal Gown Designer: Augusta Jones
Bridal Gown Retailer: Stardust Celebrations
Hair & Makeup: Hair by Candice Wilmeth, Make-up by Taylor Seymour
Groom’s Attire: United States Marine Corps Uniform
Bridesmaid Dresses Designer: Alfred Sung
Bridesmaid Dresses Retailer: Lulu’s Bridal Boutique
Flowers: Edwards Floral Design
Reception Venue: The Grand Hotel McKinney, TX
Wedding Cake By: Nothing Bundt Cakes
Groom’s Cake by: Nothing Bundt Cakes
Caterer: Rick’s Chophouse
Entertainment: Jacob Stogner with LG Entertainment

The post Devan Hollaway & Jacob Tovar appeared first on D Weddings.

Does the wedding of your dreams and the budget of your reality not quite match up? Maybe you’ve pinned hundreds of images on your Pinterest board only to find out that the funds needed to pull off that wedding will be well beyond your estimated allotment. Consider entering the Renaissance Dallas Hotel luxury wedding giveaway. Not only is the entire wedding and honeymoon covered (including the vendors listed below), but you don’t have to make a single decision about who to trust on your big day. They’ve done all the work for you. Here’s the superstar lineup:

• Reception at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel (includes Champagne toast, plated dinner, ballroom space, two-hour bar, and on-hour cocktail reception for 150 people)
• Wedding planning services by Steve Kemble
• Ceremony and reception floral and decor by Liland’s Special Events
• Decor lighting and entertainment by Absolute Entertainment & Lighting
• Wedding cake by Cake Carousel
• Tuxedos by Minsky’s
• Photography by The Mamones
• Invitations by Missing Q Press
• Calligraphy by The Left Handed Calligrapher
• Wedding dress by StarDust Celebrations
• Honeymoon Stay at Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino in the Ambassador Suite with daily breakfast for two and access to the hotel’s private island

The prizes add up to $100,000. You must apply by February 28. For rules and regulations, frequently asked questions, and how to enter, click here.

The post Win a November Wedding at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel appeared first on D Weddings.

Southerners Lee Warmack and Neal McDonald (she’s from Arkansas, and he grew up in Georgia) met in Dallas through mutual friends in 2007, but their friendship quickly turned into more. Neal surprised Lee with a romantic setting of rose petals and Champagne on the terrace at The Mansion on Turtle Creek when he asked her to be his wife, and the two started planning their August 24, 2013, nuptials. They said “I do” in Beaver Creek, Colorado, surrounded by family and friends, and their mountain wedding at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch featured details personalized for the couple, including a specialty cocktail named after the pair’s much-loved King Charles Spaniel, Winston.

Ceremony Site: Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Photographer/Studio: John Cain Photography
Bridal Gown Designer: Vera Wang
Bridal Gown Retailer: Warren Barrón
Hair & Makup: Christy Ogden
Groom’s Attire: Brooks Brothers
Bridesmaids Dresses Designer: Monique Lhuillier
Bridesmaids Dresses Retailer: Bella Bridesmaid
Flowers: Bloom
Reception Site: Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Cake: Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Caterer: Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Band: The Hudson Project, New York City
Lighting: Pink Monkey Solutions
Wedding Rentals: Pink Monkey Solutions; Alpine Party Rentals
Wedding Planner: Emily Campbell, Bella Design & Planning

The post Lee Warmack & Neal McDonald appeared first on D Weddings.

Photo by Micah Alexander Photography.

Thanks to Kassi Nopratvarakorn Snyder for this week’s wedding advice:

“Our wedding day was absolutely perfect, so this is really minor, but if I could redo our first kiss over again, I would have thought about hand placement prior to the wedding day. I was so nervous and I had no idea what to do with my hands when our officiant pronounced us husband and wife that I grabbed my husband by the shoulders for our first kiss. They’re still very sweet pictures, but it might have been a more romantic pose if we had thought about it beforehand.”

The post Advice From a Bride: Kiss and Tell appeared first on D Weddings.

55 Short Ln., 170th floor
Dallas, TX
75225

214-555-1234

The post Test Vender appeared first on D Weddings.

Shop Alvina Valenta’s romantic collection at StarDust.

Trunk shows are a great way to see more of a designer’s dresses than are normally carried in a store. You’ll have more to choose from, so don’t miss out! Click the links below for all the details.

Austin Scarlett Trunk Show at Warren Barron

Ines Di Santo Trunk Show at The Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus

Alvina Valenta Trunk Show at StarDust Celebrations

Tony Bowls Trunk Show at Terry Costa

Pronovias Trunk Show at LuLu’s Bridal Boutique

Essense of Australia Trunk Show at de ma fille

The post Trunk Show Scoop: Austin Scarlett, Ines Di Santo, Alvina Valenta, Tony Bowls, Pronovias, and Essence of Australia appeared first on D Weddings.

55 Short Ln., 170th floor
Dallas, TX
75225

214-555-1234

The post Vender Test appeared first on D Weddings.