Let the runway begin!

Y11211-Ivon

With cascading rows of ruffled misty tulle and glittering hand-beading softly spilling down to the hemline, Ivon creates a mesmerizing effect in this A-line silhouette. The Paris satin asymmetrically dropped waist bodice boasts exquisite hand draping and glamorous hand beading trims sweetheart neckline. A chapel length train and functional corset back complete this chic look. Removable straps are included.

Y11102-Leighanna

Sophistication with a touch of glamour, Leighanna combines traditional couture-inspired draping with modern styling. A slim A-line gown in sumptuous Paris satin, the gown features a strapless sweetheart neckline. Dazzling crystal brooch-like beading at the waist catches a striking waterfall ruffle that cascades down the front. The functional corset back is partially concealed by a satin overlay that spills into a chapel length train. Removable straps included.

Y21143-Zola

Paris satin is shown off in all its glory in this slim A-line signature Sophia Tolli gown, Zola. Guipure lace and distinctive couture inspired asymmetric draping highlights the bust and sweetheart neckline. Matching Guipure lace lightly dusted with hand beading and crystals continues down the side of bodice and accentuates the stunning cut of this gown. The dress features a wonderfully pleated skirt that sweeps into a chapel length train. A functional corset back finishes this classic look. Removable straps included.

Y11008-Innis

Blending tradition with modern styling, Innis captures all the elements we love most in a classic Sophia Tolli gown. Organza spills around the body and is caught up with hand placed lace appliques on the strapless bodice, while the A-line skirt dances with delicate lace posies that continue to the chapel length train. The back bodice features a wrap draping closure accentuated with lace applique to conceal a functional corset back. Removable straps included.

Find Sophia Tolli and more great designers at Always Elegant Bridal & Tuxedo, 229 Clark Avenue in Yuba City. 530-755-4282, alwayselegantbridal.net. And, be sure to like their Facebook page!

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of Sophia Tolli.

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They’ve created a section devoted solely to the subject of nuptials, and think it’s pretty post worthy. Informative, helpful, amusing and often irreverent, it’s just as good for a quick laugh as it is for tips on finding a “superstar” wedding ring on a budget. They have individual tabs that include Planning 101, Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, Wedding 2.0, Etiquette and Advice and even Indiebrides. You’ll find entries, like “How to Get Married at Home Without Losing Your Mind,” and my favorite “Five Things Never to Talk About in a Wedding Toast.”

Here’s another handpicked blog close to my heart…”10 Things Not to Say to Same-Sex Couples.” Read it here. Enjoy!

Check HuffPost Weddings out here: www.huffingtonpost.com/weddings

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photo courtesy of HuffPost Weddings.

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Recommended Resort:  The Charlie. Not a traditional hotel, The Charlie is actually an assortment of bungalows surrounding a gorgeous garden. Built in 1924 by the Ruth Gordon family (of Harold and Maude and Rosemary’s Baby fame) these little pieces of heaven became temporary havens to the aforementioned stars, especially its signature namesake.

Following the multi-million dollar restoration, the property is better than ever and awaiting your close-up. Each is touchingly named in homage to a famous celebrity and styled in sleek Hollywood fashion. Most feature a kitchen and private area, be it a balcony or a patio. Units range in size from two-story to one-story living spaces.

Check In:  819 N. Sweetzer Avenue in West Hollywood. 323-988-9000, thecharliehotel.com

Check Out:  The Marilyn. Home to Marilyn herself in the ’40s, this stand-alone two story cottage features two bedrooms and one and a half baths. The dining room overlooks the lush gardens and the bedroom opens to a large wrap around patio, perfect for a post-Oscar champagne brunch.

Don’t Miss:  Hollywood…of course. The Chaplin has the benefit of being located in a quiet residential neighborhood without being too far away from the action. West Hollywood is a great spot for cafes, restaurants and shopping, especially along famous Melrose Avenue and ever evolving La Cienega.

For more reliable tourist fare, head up to Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, where historical landmarks like the Hollywood Bowl, Grauman’s Chinese and the Walk of Fame await your camera opp. For a bit of Hollywood dining history, make a reservation at Musso & Franks…one of the oldest eateries in the area and a favorite hide out for the stars.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Contributor Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of The Charlie.

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Christian Siriano has already designed for big stars like Heidi Klum, Fergie and Taylor Swift, but now you can expect to see his dazzling couture grace the wedding aisle. Nordstrom will feature Siriano’s bridal looks this March, available online and in Nordstrom stores across the U.S.

The strapless gown featured above retails for $2,375 and is “fit for a fairytale.” Check back at nordstrom.com soon for more inspiring looks from this talented young designer.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.

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The “Camden” by WToo is unique with its halter neckline and sleek A line fit. Covered in full lace, this dress is sure to give off a romantic feel.

The “Alandra” by Maggie Sottero is the gown with a lot of personality. With the slight sweetheart neckline and fitted bodice leading into the dramatic train, heads are sure to turn.

The “Giselle” by Maggie Sottero is shaped by the rouching of the bodice that is a flattering silhouette to any figure. A dramatic full tulle skirt to create a winning look for any princess bride.

The “Reese” by Maggie Sottero is an elegant free-flowing dress perfect for that destination wedding. With the unique beaded back this dress forms any shape with a sleek silhouette.

This Casablanca gown 2020 is delicate with beaded appliqués from head to toe. The optional zipper slit and the sweetheart neckline adds that lovely feminine touch.

Find all these delightful gowns at Enchanted Bridal Shoppe, 5321 Sunrise Boulevard in Fair Oaks. 916-965-5683, enchantedbridalshoppe.com.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of dress manufacturer.

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Recommended Resort:  River Terrace Inn. This tranquil retreat nestled along the River Trail and the Oxbow Park Preserve of the Napa Valley Wine Country is walking distance from downtown Napa’s charming wine tasting salons, restaurants, art galleries, nightlife and attractions such as Oxbow Public Market, Napa Valley Opera House and Napa Valley Wine Train.

Featuring a pristine riverfront setting, the River Terrace Inn is a refreshing blend of upscale elegance and cool California charm. Stretch out in their 106 luxurious guestrooms and suites where warm wood tones are accented by rich, vibrantly colored fabrics and rugs.

Check In:  1600 Soscol Avenue in Napa. 866-NAPA-FUN riverterraceinn.com

Check Out:  Restaurant Cuvée. Located in the center of downtown Napa adjacent to River Terrace Inn, this fun eatery offers a low country feel and living room ambiance complemented by distinctive cuisine with a high country flavor and polished edge.

Cuvée’s community-focused menu is solely dictated by regional availability and ripeness, producing rich comfort food flavors reengineered to a level of “high cuisine.” While offering an extensive local wine list, the bar also features a robust beer list focused on Northern California micro brews as well as fresh garden-inspired drinks.

Chef Mackey’s enhancements to Cuvée include an on-site garden to harvest organic herbs and vegetables for farm-to-table ingredients as well as new weekly themed guest receptions such as “Cupcake Happy Hour” on Tasting Tuesday and “Bubbles and Buckets” on Fried-day.

Don’t Miss:  Napa Valley Wine Country Honeymoon Package. Experience two nights of romantic bliss in a River Front Deluxe Jacuzzi Room with a private balcony overlooking the Napa River.

A lovely bouquet of roses, box of chocolates and chilled champagne await you upon arrival. Enjoy an intimate dinner at one of Napa’s most popular restaurants. Awaken to breakfast in bed or on your private balcony before enjoying an exclusive private wine tasting tour of three boutique wineries in a chauffeured limousine.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Contributor Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of River Terrace Inn.

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“Hillary was joyous, over the moon,” Wang told PEOPLE magazine. “And [she was] actually very enchanted with the thought of a hand-pieced, hand-engineered lace mermaid wedding gown.”

The strapless dress featured all-over lace underlay, a layered tulle skirt with horsehair banding and a hand-cut corded lace applique with hand-applied crystal-and-pearl beading.

“While the dress was very tailored, the lace work was extremely feminine,” Wang explains.

Scott finished her look with an embroidered, cathedral-length mantilla veil with hand-cut Chantilly lace applique.

“[She was] a contemporary vision of a traditional bride,” Wang says proudly.

What do you think? Tell us with your personal comments.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of People Magazine.

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Alfred Sung Junior Bridesmaid Style JR500

An adorable halter cocktail length dupioni dress with matching skinny belt and pockets at side seams of full skirt. Also available full length.

Alfred Sung Junior Bridesmaid style JR506

This lovely strapless cocktail length peau de soie dress with sweetheart features a pleated surplice bodice. Matching belt and flower detail at natural waist. Pockets at side seams of full pleated skirt. Also available full length.

Dessy Collection Junior Bridesmaid JR508

A strapless full-length, lux chiffon dress with shirred bodice and matching flower detail is pretty as a picture.

After Six Junior Bridesmaid Style JR509

A shimmery strapless cocktail length matte satin dress with matching skinny belt. Pockets at side seams of full shirred skirt. Also available full length.

After Six Junior Bridesmaid Style JR513

Go for a little drama with this strapless, full-length renaissance satin dress with draped detail at bodice and a-line skirt with slight train.

Dessy Collection Junior Bridesmaid JR514

All grown up in this one shoulder, matte satin and lux chiffon full length dress with draped bodice and full skirt.

All of these gorgeous junior bridesmaid dresses are available locally at Diamond Bridal Gallery, 6963 Douglas Boulevard in Granite Bay. 916-521-9856, diamondbridalgallery.com.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of their manufacturer.

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Recommended Resort: Hotel Terra. Open, expansive windows bring Wyoming’s stunning outdoor natural beauty indoors at Hotel Terra. Eco-friendly by design, the property offers superior interior air quality, efficient temperature management, well insulated rooms, smoke-free environment, chemical-free cleaning products and state-of-the-art ventilation, collectively creating a healthier, restorative environment. Modern, yet cozy, the stylish interiors include inlaid gas fireplaces, contemporary western design features and rich material tones and textures throughout.

Check In: 3335 West Village Drive in Teton Village, Wyoming. 800-631-6281, hotelterrajacksonhole.com

Check Out: Free Ride (Air Credit Promotion)

Hotel Terra offers a rare opportunity for big savings on your flight to Jackson Hole. Get room credit to mitigate the cost of flight when you book five nights or more. Credit ranges from $300 to $850 per stay. The bigger the room type, the more you get back in your one-time credit at checkout.

Room type and savings breakdown are as follows:

• Terra Guest Room: One-time $300 credit

• One Bedroom Suite: One-time $600 credit

• Two Bedroom Suite: One-time $900 credit

Don’t Miss: The skiing. It doesn’t get much better than Jackson Hole, Wyoming, skiing and snowboarding. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is widely considered to offer the nation’s best and most exciting ski terrain. With more than 2,500 acres of beginner, intermediate and expert terrain set in the center of the famed Teton Mountain Range, Jackson Hole is the alpine experience of a lifetime.

Here are some of the amazing snow specs:

• Summit elevation of 10,450 feet

• Uphill capacity of 15,423 skiers per hour

• Open backcountry gate system allows expert skiers and snowboarders access to 3,000+ acres of additional, untouched terrain and snow

Runs:

• 50% Expert

• 40% Intermediate

• 10% Beginner

• 116 Named Trails on Map

Lifts:

• One New 100 Passenger Aerial Tram

• One Eight Px High-Speed Gondola

• Two Detachable Quad Chairlifts

• Four Fixed Grip Quad Chairlifts

• Two Triple Chirlifts

• One Double Chairlift

Snow:

Average of 459″/year (38.25 feet; 1166 cm; 11.6 meters) over the past 10 years

Instruction:

Jackson Hole’s Adult Mountain Sports School and Kids Ranch, offers instruction to every level, including guides to show your around Jackson’s legendary backcounty!

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Contributor Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of Hotel Terra.

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Princess Diana, hands down. Sure, it’s VERY fairytale fantasy with those poofy sleeves and the meringue skirt. But, c’mon…that dress was EPIC. Until the recent nuptials of her son William to Kate, was there ever a wedding the world watched with more anticipation in our modern era?

Guess what? The dress and its magnificent 25-foot train are currently touring the U.S. as part of the exhibition Diana: A Celebration.

Throughout nine galleries, heirlooms, paintings, letters, videos and photos provide historical and personal context to the late princess’s life. Other items include 28 designer suits and evening gowns worn by the princess in her public life; two diamond tiaras and other priceless family jewels; the original text of the Earl Spencer’s moving tribute to his sister at the funeral in Westminister Abbey; the score and lyrics of the Elton John/Bernie Taupin composition, adapted from “Candle in the Wind;” original heritage family paintings; and books of condolences left by people throughout the world. But the true highlight of the exhibit is that famous wedding dress.

All profits generated to the Althorp Estate from Diana, A Celebration at Althorp and overseas go to The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund. Since 1998, the exhibition at Althorp has generated more than $2 million for charities supported by the memorial fund and has been visited by more than one million people, though it is open there for only two months out of the year.

The tour is currently at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut and will move on to the Mall of America in Minneapolis from February 4 through June 10. Currently there are no plans to come to Sacramento, or California for that matter…but we’re hopeful. In summer, the exhibit is scheduled to move back to its permanent home in England.

Worth the trip to the Midwest? For any Princess Di fan, we think it’s a must.

For more information, click here.

Blog post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos courtesy of dianaexhibition.com.

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