Mark Zunino Spring Bridal Collection

This chic Hollywood glamour bridal collection is fit for a bride looking to show off her sexy, sensual side. While backstage before his line hit the runway, Zunino talks, elegance, corsets, Hollywood glamour, and the ideal fit. Many of these beautiful gowns were hand crafted and hand dipped Zunino himself. What's best about his collection is that his gowns are made to fit any size bride. This Hollywood collection might be my favorite collection to date!






http://www.colincowieweddings.com/inspire-me/fashion-beauty-fitness/fashion/video/behind-the-seams-mark-zunino-bridal-collection-spring-2013

venues | Top 5 Wedding Venues in the DMV

1. The Newseum, Washington, D.C.  -

The Newseum has been a extreme hot spot for special occasions. Located at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth Street, this media savvy venue has breathtaking views of the U.S. Capitol, The National Gallery of Art, and The National Mall. A Newseum wedding includes several amazing features such as: a rooftop ceremony, catering by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and floor to ceiling windows showcasing D.C's breathtaking views.

2. LongView Gallery, Washington, D.C.-

This unique venue will allow you to begin designing your dream wedding from a clean slate. It is perfect for a couple with a vision of a urban-chic wedding. The venue is fun, untraditional, with tons of space to party (with 400 people at its capacity).  Longview is also located right across the street from the Washington Convention Center Metro, which is convenient for guests staying in nearby hotels.

3. Meridian House, Washington, D.C. -

Fall in love with the historic character and beautiful grounds of the Meridian House. This venue is great for a romantic outdoor wedding amongst its garden and stone statues. The Meridian House is known as the post popular and beautiful wedding venues in Washington, D.C.


4. The Oxon Manor, M.D. -

Want a garden wedding? Well this is the perfect place. The Oxon Manor is known is a hidden gem right over the Wilson Bridge in MD. It's lush gardens and large rooms with suit your guests comfortably.


5. Top of the Town, Arlington, V.A. -

Just across the Jefferson Memorial lies another event space with a spectacular view of our Nation's Capital. What's best is that they give you a selection of everything you need for your wedding. They will assist you with caterers, DJs, florist, and photographers.

news | Baptist Church Denies Black Wedding

travel | Honeymoon Destinations

If you have seen any of our posts on Blush's Facebook page, you will notice a ___ of potential honeymoon destinations. If you have the ability to travel abroad for your honeymoon, I personally, would highly suggest do so. What's better than exploring the beauty and culture of another country with your loved one on your arm? The world outside of the United States has plenty to offer and is awaiting your presence. 

Since I am such a big fan of traveling, I thought it would be a good idea some common and unique vacation spots for your honeymoon.

Cirque de Italy & Rome, Italy

This colorful region of the Italian Riviera consists of five small fishing towns that hug the cliffs along turquoise Ligurian Sea. With miles of breathtaking trails, the Cirque de Italy (also called Cinque Terre) is definitely a backpacker's dream. Enjoy warm colors of the buildings, great cuisine and amazing aromas the city has to offer.

Celebrate your love for the ages in what is know as "The Eternal City," Rome. From ancient streets, to historic buildings to superb restaurants, this place has everything it needs to make a couple's honeymoon more than romantic. Take an evening stroll along the cobblestone streets or get a taste or Rome from one of it's many fine dining restaurants. Book a room at the villa Spalleti Trivelli, Portrait Suits, Hotel Roma or Palm Gallery and then begin planning your day in the city.

Bali, Indonesia 


Volcanoes and mountain lakes, ancient temples, and lively tourist resorts on exotic beaches makes Bali a captivating city for your honeymoon destination. Enjoy cultural shows in one of Indonesia's most accessible and affordable vacations.  

Puerta Vallarta

Known as La Ciudad Mas Amigable en el Mundo (The Friendliest City in the World) by Condé Nast Magazine, Puerto Vallarta is certainly a vacation hotspot in Mexico. Relax at the Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa or sunbathe on the beach. For a bit of nature, head to Playa Anclote and hire a boat to go to the Marietas Islands, home to numerous species of birds, tropical fish, and (in the winter months) humpback whales.


I personally, have been to Puerto Vallarta, and out of visiting Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta was my favorite place to visit! Just look at this city! It's gorgeous!

Bora Bora


The tropical and secluded islands of Bora Bora for those couples who want a little more peace and quiet. It is a must that you spend your vacation in one of the over water houses. This resort invites newlyweds to to enjoy their privacy in a bungalow perched above the lagoon on high stilts. Admire Sunset sails aboard a private catamaran including four-course dinner and the sounds and emotions of live Polynesian music and dancers. At many of the resorts, guests may snorkel and relax while your personal chef prepares an island feast.
 

Santorini, Greece


All-white painted villages, colorful and sandy beaches, great food, luxurious hotels, and the most magnificent sunset view... Need I say more? Santorini’s magnificent setting on the brim of the volcano makes it a unique and a favorite spot in Greece, if not worldwide. If you don't go for your honeymoon, you must travel visit this place at some point. I know I will!

-Contributed by: Alana Curtis - Blush | Social Media Intern

marriage | Scared of Sacrifices ?

While in a discussion with a group of young men from Howard University, the topic of marriage and what marriage means to men. For some, women are pressured into the idea of marriage and/or start planning for their wedding years before they find their husband. However, these days, men nearly have to be dragged down the aisle. 

Why are some men so afraid of marriage? Shouldn't men be just as happy to start a new life with the one they love just as women are?

According to Cecoy Burnett, a Junior at Howard University, the thought of sacrifice and divorce allows some men to hesitate on marriage.

"Marriage. The idea is introduced to us at a very early age. Whether through media, or if we are lucky, by our parents who are still married. Girls grow up looking towards wedding day the way one looks towards a sky that was once cloudy but is now lit up by the mighty sun. 

Boys, well, it doesn't necessarily mean the same for us. Even though we too want a "married life," we think about all the things we have to sacrifice. We think about all the marriages we know and think about how most of them are now in turmoil. So we wish and hope we can just find someone who is ok with just living together and being content with that. Still, that is not realistic, because there is a little girl in every woman and she still wants her dream wedding.   

Marriage is the beginning of a new life and death of another. Every decision must now be made by two people (at least). The television can't spend all day on ESPN anymore unless one is the luckiest man in the world and his spouse also loves to watch ESPN. Time cannot be spent with "bros" the same way anymore.  The amount of things that change are infinite it seems. However, those changes are eventually made by a man serious and happy about his marriage with ease. 

The real problem is the fear that the woman will change. Now imagine a sweet little princess that seemingly just wants to make you happy, turning bitter  and suddenly seems to be the only reason you're unhappy. Would you want to get married if that was the visible trend in society? Naturally we get comfortable and complacent; time makes us do so. Comfort and complacency is one of the most ambiguous things in existence.  A certain level of it is necessary for one to get the best out of a person, but too much of it results in an undesirable being. "

What are your thoughts on Cecoy's opinion of marriage? Do you agree? Disagree?

history | The Bouquet Toss

The bouquet toss – just one of the many wedding traditions people go crazy over. All the single women in the reception, scratch, bicker, and sometimes fight just to be the next woman holding the bouquet. In fact, I have recently heard a story of a woman losing her wig while diving for the bride's bouquet. So I guess you can say the bouquet toss is an extremely serious part of the wedding tradition.

Everyone knows that the single gal to catch the bridal bouquet is supposed to be the next one to marry. However, very few know why this tradition has become so popular.

Dating back to the 14^th century brides traditionally carried bunches of garlic, fruit, blossoms, grains, and herbs down the aisle to drive away evil spirits and embrace prosperity. As the years progressed, the bunches of garlic and fruit were replaced by flowers, which represented fertility and everlasting love. Since brides were considered to be lucky people, the wedding guests hoped such luck would rub off on others.

Wedding guests would try to tear pieces of the brides dress before she left the celebration. Naturally, any bride would be opposed to getting chased down for her dress after her wedding. Thus, brides thought of the alternative to toss their bouquet instead. Such a keepsake would bring good luck in love.

Ever since, the idea of the bridal bouquet toss is wrapped around the concept of love and good fortune. Whichever unmarried woman catches the bridal bouquet, so the story goes, will be the next to marry.

hair | Unique Accessories

On wedding day the bride is expected to be the center of attention. Surely the dress is the most important part of her ensemble, but the accessories she uses to complement her dress are important as well. Without wedding hair accessories, the look of the bride is somewhat incomplete. Though a veil is a traditional hair accessory, some brides like unique accessories to fit the style or theme of their wedding. Regardless of the hair style and length,some unique and sparkling hair accessories can help you achieve a gorgeous look.

Alternate Veils:

As stated before, some weddings have a specific theme. Therefore, many brides will step out of the traditional veil to adhere to their theme. Brides, if the theme of your wedding is vintage or resembles the 1920s era, these veils below might be of interest to you:

Headbands and Hair Combs:

Headbands and combs maintains the hair properly, but also adds more of the “WOW!” factor to your overall look. Headbands and hair combs have the ability to make the Indie/Hippie look chic on wedding day. It can add interest and attention to your overall grace and beauty. Here are more samples below:

the dress | A Brief History of Lace Dresses

Ever wonder why lace dresses have become so popular lately? Who started this trend? And why does everybody look so good in it? Certainly one of these questions had to have crossed your mind at least once. Well, your questions will be answered as soon as you take a quick glimpse of the history of lace dresses.

1840s:

                                            

The lace wedding gown did not become popular until 1840, when Queen Victoria popularized it at her wedding to Prince Albert. After that brides followed the trend in honor of their Queen, and ever since the lace dress and veil became a tradition.

1900s-1910:

Throughout the early 1900s wedding dresses casually remained the same except more brides began to wear soft white and ivory to symbolize purity and innocence. This dress here also seems to have lace outlining, particularly on the train.

1920s:

As we all know, 1920s fashion became the Flapper period. Necklines were dramatically shortened and arms and legs finally made an appearance. All the female brides and guests wore flapper style dropped waist dresses with fringes at the knees to provide more attitude to their style.

1940s:

In the early-mid 1940s complete sheer lace with a fitted bodice and V-point waist was all the rave. Necklines plummeted a little longer, but remained complemented by sleeves and long trains.

1980s - 1990s:

The 1980s and 1990s were very similar in style. Most of the wedding dress designs emphasized the shoulders and upper arms. Dresses made of man made materials and lace were still favorable as was the use of inexpensive offshore labor which meant that a bride could get a beautiful wedding dress at an exceptional value. These designs can  closely be related to those of the mid or late Victorian time period. This style of dress definitely deserves a 'What were we thinking?' type of award. Do you see that veil?

 Today:

The 21st century bride can dress in almost any style - from ornate designer dresses to a something informal. Not only have necklines plummeted to no end, but bare backs have as well. Most lace dresses seen today make the bride look more modern and sleek, with a touch of sexiness. We've come a long way since Queen Victoria, and hopefully we will think twice before looking back.

hair | Natural Hairstyles for Brides of Color

For myself, moving to Washington, D.C. from Seattle, W.A. was an eye-opening experience not only because there is a great amount of black people in D.C. but also because I noticed a lot of black women embrace their natural hair. From kinky to curly Afros, dred locks and even buzz cuts; it is nice (and even inspiring) to see so black women going natural.

However, on wedding day, many women might be confused if they should continue to rock their kinks or switch to straight hair.  If you are one of these women and you wish to keep your hair natural, you will find below a couple of hairstyles that will continue to compliment your natural beauty on wedding day.

                                                                                      ~Written by Alana Curtis, Blush | Social Media

Spotlight | Kindly RSVP Designs

Do you have a creative wedding invitation idea, but having problems finding someone to execute it? Well Blush Weddings has the pleasure to recognize Kindly R.S.V.P. Designs as your go-to graphic designer.

Rachael, the owner of Kindly R.S.V.P. Designs in Baltimore, MD, specializes in designing your most thoughtful and creative ideas for your invitations.

“I like designing wedding invitations because I can be more creative. I also like working with diverse clients and crafting their different ideas and demands,” says Rachael.

Rachael has been into graphic design since she graduated Paxton University with a degree in graphic design in 2005. Other than wedding invitations, Rachael designs bar and bat mitzvahs, bridal showers, wedding programs, engagement parties, baby announcements, and many more.

With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 on www.weddingwire.com, R.S.V.P. Designs is undeniably one of the most popular graphic design businesses in Maryland.

One happy customer on Wedding Wire said, “When I received my invitations they were custom made, one-of-a-kind and set the feel I wanted to make leading up to my wedding. People called me, texted and emailed to let me know how gorgeous, organized, and elegant my invitations were […] I highly suggest using R.S.V.P. Designs!”

If you are interested in this vendor check out www.kindlyrsvpdesigns.com for more information and contact Rachael through e-mail at kindlyrsvpdesigns@gmail.com, Phone: (410) 935-1413.

See samples from Kindly R.S.V.P. Designs below!

Spotlight | Cellar Door Photography

This week, Blush shines its spotlight on Destinee Montague from Cellar Door Photography. Destinee has had a love for photography since she was 12-years-old, and has now been a professional photographer for six years. Through her photographs she aims to capture the most beautiful memories and events occurring in hers clients life for them to smile about in the future.

Cellar Door specializes in special event, portraiture, and fine art photos, but Destinee says she enjoys capturing the drama, fashion, and celebration that goes into weddings.

“I love seeing people at their happiest, and being able to tell their story knowing that the couple will look back at their photos five or ten years from now and reminisce about that period,” says Destinee.

To capture the most genuine expression on a model’s face, Destinee tries to remain in the shadows during moments when her models are unaware that she is looking. She admits catching this expression can be a challenge for her because it is important to be in the right place at the right time.

“You don’t want to be so close to the couple to where you feel you are breathing down their neck. Yet I enjoy a creative challenge like this is because I am able to use different camera lenses to catch wide range or close up shots.”

During wedding day, Destinee especially enjoys shooting the bride. “The bride is the personification of a wedding because her shoes, garner, and veil connect to the entire day,” she says.

Weddings only come around once, and Cellar Door Photography is a great way to capture all of the emotions that go into a wedding celebration.

Check out some images from Cellar Door Photography below.

For more information about Cellar Door Photography check out www.cellardoorphoto.com

or e-mail Destinee at info@cellardoorphoto.com