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Middle school English teacher & supervisor by day. Contributor for BRIDES and HobokenGirl by nights & weekends. Lover of writing, literature, people and communication.
Throughout many cultures, the traditional white wedding dress symbolizes purity, spirituality and "bridal joy." But, up until royal bride Queen Victoria, many other brides (including royalty) didn't wear white on their wedding day - so why should you feel like you have to?
Photo: Getty Images Even the most financially savvy, budget minded brides would agree... Wedding planning is EXPENSIVE. Whether you're throwing the party of the year or an intimate reception, why not get rewarded for the hard earned money you are spending? By using these credit cards as you plan (and pay!)
Photo: Courtesy of Better Off Wed Your wedding day should reflect who you are as a couple, and have pieces of your personality woven throughout. So what better way to achieve this than with personalized or custom wedding décor? Enter: Etsy.
Everyone's eyes will be on your dress, of course, but, as you walk down the aisle, don't forget what you're walking on - those special bridal shoes! The finishing piece to your bridal ensemble is, of course, your footwear.
Photo: Getty Images It happens to the best of us. You say "yes to the dress," cry happy tears, pose for photos and go out to toast your big decision. But then days (maybe even hours) later indecision sets in. Did I make the right decision?
Check lists, appointments, to-do lists, and more swirl around in your head throughout the wedding planning process. Chances are if you're even a remotely organized bride-to-be, you have measures in place to ensure you don't forget any of the important stuff.
Photo: Courtesy of The Ashford Estate If you envision rustic, country, or vintage vibes for your big day, you're not alone. Rustic weddings with a country feel are gaining in popularity at rapid speed, and right outside of New York (in New Jersey), there are a ton of beautiful venues to suit your style.
Photo: Courtesy of Bagatelle New York Brunch: the socially acceptable excuse for day drinking, and the best way to get all your girls together to celebrate all the festivities to come. Maybe you've already scoured Pinterest for a creative way ask, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
Photo: Courtesy of Liberty House There's no argument that one of the best things Manhattan has to offer is its skyline. The problem with getting married in NYC is that when you're actually in Manhattan, you can't always enjoy the view. That's what New Jersey is for!
Photo: Getty Images Congratulations! You're engaged and excited - but now what? Planning and parties and budgets, oh my! But, before you let the fun (and stress) of wedding planning begin, take some time to celebrate with your new fiancé for a special date night in NYC at some our favorite date night locations.
Photo: Courtesy of Addison Park If marble dance floors, dramatic up lighting, crystals, drapery and other traditional touches make your eyes sparkle as much as your engagement ring, you are most definitely a classic bride. We've put together a multitude of timeless New Jersey spots to check out on your quest to pick the perfect venue.
Do you find that no matter where you travel (or live), your heart belongs to NYC? Yeah, us too. Don't worry! Even though you're not getting married in the city that never sleeps, you can "give your regards to Broadway" by incorporating bits of the Big Apple into your big day.