Friday, 28 October 2011

Label Lust

While the focus will be on the Bride's dress, please don't forget the shoes! A striking pair of shoes under your dress can create a great quirky addition to your outfit.

I currently love these fabulous Miu Miu pumps. A pure indulgence, but they are fabulous. Check them out http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/172079.

But if your budget doesn't quite stretch then don't worry too much. There are some great high street versions out there too for a fraction of the price. These are my favourite from the high street http://www.dune.co.uk/whirl-glitter-platform-court-prodwhirld90silver/ and they are a really version.

Laura xx

Saturday, 22 October 2011

On the Run....

It goes without question that all brides (and grooms) want to look their best on the big day. Your photos last a lifetime and your full attention goes into every detail of your big day. If you feel like you want to get into shape for your wedding then you might be starting to feel some pressure. But fear not, however close you are to your big day, getting in shape is easier than you think.


I'm not a bride to be myself but I have had a recent change of pace when it comes to keeping fit. The first thing I did to kick start my new regime was to quit the gym. Slightly back to front I know but it worked for me. In all honesty, I never went to the gym and not going was costing me £35 a month. With the money I saved I bought a Nike+ Sportband http://nikerunning.nike.com/nikeos/p/nikeplus/en_GB/ and it's one of the best things I have ever purchased. It is great to track your progress and keep you motivated. If you need an inspirational video to watch, check out Ellie Goulding on the Nike website. She is a great advert for running and how to look uber cool whilst doing it. I have to say I do not quite achieve that level of cool as I pound the pavement clad in fluorescent pink but it is the taking part that counts!


I run with my friend Charlotte and we have both caught the running bug. Our first race was Race for Life and next up is our Halloween fun run dressed as cats. I would highly recommend getting a running buddy or joining a club. As the evening get darker, it is important to keep safe and not run on your own. A buddy will also make sure you don't quit after the initial few weeks enthusiasm has worn off.  Check out www.joggingbuddy.com for tips and help in finding a fellow runner.


My new regime however is not exercise alone. I have also joined Slimming World www.slimmingworld.com I have lost over a stone through the plan and exercise and I cannot recommend it enough. I have finally found a diet that allows you to eat as much as you like and where treats are still allowed. It has really worked for me and is a plan I will now stick to and keep those pounds at bay.


I am not saying however that you must join Slimming World and start running marathons to be the perfect blushing bride. You simply need to find a routine and exercise that suits you. Whether it's Zumba, tennis or swimming, just make sure you enjoy it. This will make it easier to stick to and keep you going. As you see results and others notice your new figure you will have the boost you need to help you achieve your goal.


Good Luck!! xxxx

Wednesday, 12 October 2011

Pretty Pastels

Check out these great pastel coloured nail varnishes from budget brand Barry M. They're fresh colours without being too bold or bright. Mint Green, Strawberry and Peach Melba might be too colourful for the bride, but don't forget your bridesmaids!



If you can't afford to pay for your maids to get their nails done (and neither maybe can they!) then why not treat them to some fun colours. Create small gift bags including a varnish in a colour that will go with their dress. Pop in some other fun manicure accessories so they can do it themselves and have neat and tidy nails for your big day. This will be a nice treat for them and will avoid any questions on what colour they should go for - especially if you want them all to match!

Laura xx

Sunday, 2 October 2011

Really Retro

There is no denying that vintage is a lovely, pretty trend. However those of you with a slightly quirkier edge, may prefer things a little more retro.
Retro is a much bolder colour palette and has a naturally fun side to it. There are many things that you can do to ensure your day has a retro theme and you can embrace as little or as much as you like!

Retro sweets are great to have out for guests to pick on during the

evening. Fill jars with a selection of sweets and provide metal scoops and sweet shop bags for guests to fill. For full on retro think coconut mushrooms, dolly mixtures and cola cubes! A great place to source these is www.aquarterof.co.uk/ and try Amazon for the scoops and bags.

For refreshments, classic mini glass coca cola bottles are perfect. Iconic in design, they will instantly add a touch of old school to your day. You can find these easily in most supermarkets. To complete the look add red and white stripe paper straws from www.papermash.co.uk/ The red stripes sit perfectly with the cola bottles and will help keep your guests refreshed. To make them even more perfect, they are biodegradable for the environmentally conscious couple. Papermash also supply a great range of products to help you get creative. Think printed tape and party banners to name but a few. Also check out their *free* section for some great craft ideas - including one which uses the fabulous straws.

For your menus - take a look at these great cute postcards I have found in Paperchase.

At just 60p each they are great value and will add a splash of colour to the tables. Simply type up your menu and stick to the back for a quick and effective way of displaying your menu.Party Pieces - www.partypieces.co.uk have some great place card holders which you can use to display these.

Finally if you want to give your guests a hint of your theme then you can invite them with a wedding tea towel! The designs at www.weddingteatowels.co.uk/ are truly wonderful and each design is classic and quirky. Whilst they are not the cheapest option for wedding stationery they are individual and can be made especially for you with their bespoke service .They can  also be kept by guests and cost just one Large Letter stamp to post out.

Laura xx