We love how brides are dressing up the aisle! From ribbons and bows to fancy aisle runners, this trend is adorable! Hanging pomanders or kissing balls, like those pictured above, are some of the cutest aisle accessories we’ve seen! The white floral arrangement (top left) created by Nest Floral Studio is sweetly draped on a chair with polka dot ribbon. So classic! Looking for a punch of color? Lime green pomanders on chocolate brown ribbon, like the Willow Creations design pictured top right will jazz up any aisle! Check out this unique way to reserve seating at the ceremony, thanks to Nest Floral Studio! We want to hear from you! How will you style up your aisle?

For a striking color combo, pair teal blue and tangerine! Request your guests in style with an invite by Simply Personal. For the bridesmaids, these gorgeous full-length gowns by After Six, available at the Bridal Boutique and Bella Bridesmaid, are sure to catch everyone’s eye. Accessorize with these stunning earrings by Simon G available at Kubes Jewelers in Fort Worth. Your tables will be a hit with soft orange rose arrangements like this one from Nest, Floral Studio and table décor from BBJ Linen. This three-tier Crème de la Crème cake will be both a delicious and beautiful highlight of everyone’s evening at the reception. Enjoy!

Get excited! Planning your wedding day just got so much easier! With tons of inspiration, ideas, and helpful tools, the new Brides of TX iPhone app is jam-packed with cool stuff! Browse through pages of real weddings and save your favorite images to your idea file. Search the best of the best DFW wedding vendors and contact them instantly with just a touch! Tune into behind the scenes videos of the making of the mag captured by Hakim Sons Films, Beyond and UonDVD! Find that perfect venue with Luxe Locations! Sort through tons of awesome spaces by price, capacity, and location and immediately get detailed info, directions, and connected with the venue’s personal staff! Stay in the loop with immediate event and promotion updates from Facebook, Twitter and the daily blog! Don’t forget to rate your favorite images and ideas! Rate the top North Texas weddings, bouquets, cakes, invites, décor—you name it! See how your ratings stacked up with other brides-to-be! Your dream wedding is just a touch away! Hurry to the iTunes store and download the Brides of TX app today! Enjoy!

We are in love with the fab new looks from Blue by Enzoani! Be sure to make an appointment for the Blue by Enzoani Trunk Show this Friday and Saturday at Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth. If you’re looking for the perfect dress, don’t miss the opportunity to check out their gorgeous collection of bridal gowns! Call 817.332.4696 for an appointment today.

With fall just around the corner, we thought we’d share some adorable bridesmaid dresses in rich fall hues. Your maids will look stunning in rich and bold fall colors! We just love the fabulous fashions from Lynn Lugo. You’ll find so many cute options for your maids, and if you don’t find the perfect look you can even create your own bridesmaid dress on the Lynn Lugo Web site. Too fun! Find Lynn Lugo locally at Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. Happy Friday!

How cute are these! We found some adorable images of pets included in real weddings and fell in love with the idea! Whether dogs enjoy a costume or not, they sure look precious in them! Check out the little gray dog in the frilly collar! Bella Flora of Dallas created this white puppy completely out of flowers! Dogs as a topper on the groom’s cake? Why not! Pets hold a special place in our hearts so why not include them in such a special day? Enjoy! 

Photos: f8studio (top left), KJ Images Photography (top right, bottom left), Amanda Marie Portraits (bottom middle).

Check out this charming china found at Jacksons Home and Garden in Dallas! The Bella Bianca collection from Arte Italica is handmade in Italy using a delicate white glaze over a rich, black clay. This ensures durable, quality china that is microwave safe, oven safe and dishwasher safe on low heat/air-dry setting. The beautiful patterns are exquisitely designed by an Italian fashion designer using details found in fabrics and accessories. Bellisima! The scalloped edges, antique lace, beading, emblems and subtle floral motifs all combine to create this elegant, unique tablesetting. Pair the dishes with these beautiful chargers and flatware to complete the look! You'll definitely want to add all of these beautiful pieces to your wedding registry at Jacksons Home and Garden! Ciao!

We’re so excited to announce the launch of Scripted—the new line of exclusive invitations at Imaj Design Group! Arriving tomorrow, August 25, Scripted combines old and new when it comes to wedding invites! From intricate, calligraphic fonts to vivid colors, you’ll love this fab new line of stationary! For more info, call 972.334.9717! Enjoy!

We heart Stella & Dot! These beautiful baubles and statement pieces are the perfect wedding day accessory or everyday glam! Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth is hosting a Stella & Dot Jewelry Trunk Show this Thursday, August 26 from 6:30-8pm! Make sure you stop by to view these gorgeous trinkets and purchase one for a friend or treat yourself!

We can’t let the girls have all the fun! Stanley Korshak in Dallas is hosting the Fall/Winter Ermenegildo Zegna Centennial Fashion Show & Party this Thursday, August 26 from 6:30-9:30pm! The latest in men’s couture fashion will be on display while guests enjoy snacks, spirits, and the sounds of DJ Jen Miller! Continue the celebration Friday and Saturday at the Fall 2010 Trunk Show! For more info, call 214.871.3610.

Looking for the perfect accent for your bridal gown? Stop by Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth and view the Sara Gabriel Trunk Show August 28-29! Whether you want a classic, traditional look or a fashion-forward piece, Sara Gabriel has it all! Click here for more info!

We just love this fun, frilly and whimsical look! Pairing frost blue and soft pink create a gorgeous color palette for a truly romantic wedding. This four-tier confection by Frosted Art Bakery and Studio in Dallas was the inspiration! With adorable love birds perched atop the wedding cake and pink blossoms budding, we just fell in love with this color combo! We couldn't resist pairing these adorable invites from Needle in a Haystack in Dallas with matching love birds. Dress your maids in this stunning floor-length gown from Watters available locally at  Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth or Bridal Boutique in Lewisville. Your bridesmaids will love the sweeping length and ruched bodice! Add these classic hair accessories from Sara Gabriel for a touch of charm, available locally at Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth. These ruffle petal high heels from Badgley Mischka complete their look. With their fun texture and soft pink color, these heels will have your bridesmaids dancing all night long available at Stanley Korshak in Dallas! These super frilly pillows from Gloss Luxury Event Rentals bring the complete look together. Add them to your reception site for a pop of color and fun! Ruffles are the perfect accessory to add some romance to your wedding look! Cheers!

We just love our new cover bride and have been dying to share more pictures from her gorgeous spring wedding at Stonebridge Ranch Country Club. Despite a high chance of rain, the clouds parted and the weather was perfect for this outdoor celebration. The beautiful Stonebridge Ranch served as the perfect location for this dreamy affair. Dressed in a gorgeous Elizabeth Fillmore gown, the bride looked simply stunning surrounded by her maids wearing J. Crew dresses. The flower girls looked adorable carrying simple moss covered baskets. The bride selected gorgeous stationery from Needle in a Haystack to complement her vintage, romantic theme. We love these customized mugs for the groomsmen — too cute! And we couldn't help but share this super cute five-tiered confection topped with vintage birdies! After an incredible celebration, the couple exited their dream wedding in style in a vintage 1963 Rolls Royce from Blue Diamond Limousines. These lovely images were captured by Leslie Spurlock Photography. Enjoy! Happy Friday!

Fill your reception with the aroma of mouth-watering appetizers and delectable desserts thanks to Wendy Krispin Caterer of Dallas! Guests will be blown away by the attention to detail that Wendy always gives to her creations! When it comes to wedding menus, the possibilities are endless. Check out these awesome images by Josh Rodriguez Photography for the catering spotlight in the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of Brides of North Texas! From maple glazed lamb chops to tiny lobster gordita and sweet and spicy bleu cheese beef sliders-and those super cute cocktails-catering from Wendy Krispin is sure to impress! For booking info, click here! Enjoy!

Fashion-savvy brides get ready! Catch a first look at fall’s latest bridal trends this weekend in the North Texas area!

First up—The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak! Gather your girls and head to Dallas for the Vera Wang Bridesmaids Trunk Show this Thursday, August 19 through Saturday, August 21! The always-stunning Vera does it again with this elegant collection of pretty dresses! For more info or to make an appointment, call 214.871.3611.

Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth is hosting the Bliss Private Label Trunk Show August 20-22 and you need to be there! Only available at Bliss, this line of gorgeous gowns has something for every bride! Short and sexy or long and dramatic—Bliss Private Label has it all! Book your appointment at 817.332.4696 or click here for more info! Enjoy!

Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity! If you’re looking for the perfect keepsake and a great way to commemorate your big day, announce your wedding or engagement in Brides of North Texas magazine! All announcements are full-color and include several pictures along with a write-up! Brides can choose from a single or double page wedding announcement or an engagement announcement! Limited triple page wedding announcement space is also available. The deadline to submit your completed engagement or wedding announcement packet for the upcoming February issue is coming up on November 1. Be sure to reserve your spot online right away — space is limited! Reserve your wedding announcement space online by following this link. To download the bridal packet, click here. To reserve your engagement announcement and to download the engagement packet, click here. To make things even easier, you can now fill out the information portion of the packet online — www.bridesofnorthtexas.com/online-bridal-packet or www.bridesofnorthtexas.com/online-engagement-packet! If you have any questions, email Alli at alli@bridesofnorthtexas.com. Happy Monday!

We've paired two of our favorite wedding details, creative invites and fabulous florals, to share some gorgeous combos! For a feminine, pretty-in-pink soiree, we love this sweet bouquet (left) from The Urban Blossom paired with this pink and grey invite from Imaj Design Group. Check out these whimsical florals (middle) from Lush Couture Floral paired with an earthy invite created by Imaj Design Group. For a fun, festive summer wedding, we love these sunny florals (right) from Lush Couture Floral teamed up with a bright invite like this one from Simply Personal. Enjoy! Happy Friday!

For a sneak peek behind the scenes with Brides of North Texas and gorgeous real weddings, check out the HD videos online! Ever wonder how the vision and the details come together in extraordinary weddings? From gown shoots and awesome real wedding details to those incredible tablescape designs, we have your front row seats to get inspired with high quality footage captured from Dallas wedding videographers Hakim Sons Films, UonDVD and Beyond!  Enjoy! 

Looking to add a little sparkle and pops of glamor on your special day? Check out these rhinestone wrapped stems! Each of these bouquets were skillfully crafted by Tami Winn of leFleur Couture in Fort Worth, Texas. We just love the sparkly touches and attention to detail in everything Tami creates. These one of a kind, stunning bunch of blossoms truly standout! Wrap the stems from top to bottom for total glam, or accent luxurious ribbons with just a hint. Whether you desire a little glitter or a lot, she’ll tailor everything to your style. Check out her website to see more of her creative ideas, and call Tami Winn Events for wedding planning and stunning florals at 817.589.2393. Ciao!

Heat things up on your wedding day with shades of violet and vibrant orange! This spicy color palette has a bright, festive look that's perfect for a hot summer night! Set the mood by hanging dainty purple lanterns overhead like Bella Flora of Dallas did! Such a cute detail! Select your maid’s attire in a deep plum hue like this Watters dress from Bridal Boutique in Lewisville. Chunky gold jewelry, like this fab necklace from Kubes Jewelers, is a great gift for the wedding party! A splash of orange beautifully highlights this custom Simply Personal invite! Display this Crème de la Crème cake, featuring purple orchids, on orange, pin-tucked linens from BBJ Linen! Enjoy!

Brides of North Texas has the scoop on all of the latest events and happenings in the DFW area! Check out all of the events below to stay in the loop on all things related to weddings in Dallas and Fort Worth!

We are so excited about the upcoming Star-Telegram bridal show on August 15 at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine! The show is from 10am- 5pm and will give couples the chance to check out photographers, florists, caterers, jewelers, travel agencies and more. The bridal fashion show will include bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, mother-of-the-bride looks, men’s formal wear and accessories. This event will showcase everything you need to plan the perfect wedding! For more information, call 817-390-7105. 

The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak will be featuring a trunk show with designs by Rivini August 13 and 14 that you won’t want to miss! Rivini gowns are the epitome of luxury - each one is composed of beautiful fabric and flawless detail. Designer Rita Vinieris boasts understated elegance in these gorgeous gowns. Don’t miss out! For more information or to make an appointment, call 214-871-3611.

Mark your calendar, Diamond Oaks Country Club in Fort Worth is hosting a complimentary bridal open house on August 17 from 5:30- 9:00pm with free food and door prizes! Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to tour the club and get information from many of DFW’s top wedding professionals! For more information on this event, visit their website!

It’s official! The fall winter issue of Brides of North Texas has hit newsstands across the DFW area and we are so excited for brides-to-be to pick up the first copies! The magazine can be found at all major bookstores including Barnes and Noble, Borders, Books-A-Million, Hastings and Waldenbooks. You can also pick up a copy at other fine retailers including Central Market, Whole Foods and Target. We wanted to share a few sneak peeks from the new issue and give you a glimpse of our new iPhone app, Brides of TX, which is on sale now in the iTunes store! Check out behind the scenes videos of the making of the mag captured by Hakim Sons Films, Beyond and UonDVD! Be sure to pick up a copy of the new mag and the app for tons of inspiring ideas, the best local wedding vendors, the latest events and happenings and much more. Enjoy!

We’re so excited to share some fun news with all of our Brides of North Texas followers! Holland Photo Studios is offering a totally free engagement session to couples in the DFW area. No strings attached - with a complimentary 8×10 as their gift to you! You’ll love their original style and beautiful photography! Couple must be engaged - ring and all - and have set a wedding date. Wedding date must be no later than 12/31/2011! For the rest of the details on this offer and to schedule a session with Holland Photo Studios, click here! Ciao!

Perfect for wedding favors or bridal party gifts, we just love the fun and festive wedding wine accessories at Su Vino Winery in Grapevine! The pretty wine charms and stoppers come wrapped in deluxe gift boxes and tied with ribbon and a thank you tag. The charming winery is also home to cute bachelorette gifts and custom wine labels! Design a personalized, custom wine bottle logo that guests can enjoy after the wedding! Because after all, Su Vino means “Your Wine!”

We are always blown away by the stunning designs from the Kenneth Pool collection and are excited to announce a trunk show happening this Friday and Saturday, August 6 and 7 at Stanley Korshak in Dallas. If you're looking for the jaw-dropping gown to wear as you walk down the aisle, we highly recommend attending this trunk show! To make an appointment, call 214.871.3611. We absolutely love the latest looks from Kenneth Pool! Enjoy! 

Cool off this summer with the light and airy hues of seafoam and mint! This color mix blends beautifully with shades of white and ivory! Flawless invites set the tone for your soiree. This luxe set from Imaj Design is dressed to impress! Treat your maids to something different. We adore this mint green, Simple Silhouettes dress and jacket combo! So fresh! Find this pretty outfit locally at Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. An oh-so-cute clutch is a gift your girls will love! This beautiful bag from Cahoots Handbags in Gainesville matches perfectly! Plush pillows, like this lime pair from Gloss Luxury Event Rentals in Dallas, will dress up any reception lounge area!  Pale green hydrangeas add a whimsical touch to this gorgeous confection from Opulent Cakes in Colleyville. So pretty!

 We’re absolutely thrilled to reveal the Brides of North Texas Fall/Winter 2010 Cover Bride! Choosing just one from so many beautiful brides and brilliant photographers was definitely a challenge! Congratulations to Leslie Spurlock Photography for this gorgeous portrait of new bride Ida Ramin! Her subdued elegance and beauty perfectly set the tone for an amazing new issue! Ida wore an ivory, strapless, taffeta “Rose Garden” gown with Chiffon roses by Elizabeth Fillmore, and a chunky pearl necklace that we adore! Ida Ramin and Bradley Gleaton were married in May at Stonebridge Ranch Country Club in McKinney! Check out more of their stunning wedding photos on pages A19 & A20 of the latest issue! Be sure to pick up a copy of the new Fall/Winter issue, available on newsstands next week. Brides of North Texas is available for purchase at Borders, Books A Million, Barnes & Noble, Walden Books and other fine North Texas retailers! Or you can pick up an advanced complimentary copy of the new issue at the Dallas Bridal Show this weekend! You'll find endless inspiration and fantastic ideas for making your special day truly beautiful! Print out this coupon below to receive $1 off admission to the show! If you know any brides-to-be be sure to pass this along to them too! Be sure to stop by this Saturday and Sunday, July 31 and August 1, at the Dallas Market Center in Dallas from 10 am to 5 pm! Don't miss the chance to meet with talented local wedding vendors and make sure you stop by the Brides of North Texas booth be one of the first to pick up a complimentary copy of the ALL NEW Fall/Winter 2010 issue while you're there! See you this weekend!

It’s finally here! If you’re looking for wedding inspiration in the palm of your hands, look no further! Brides of North Texas is beyond excited to release the all new Brides of North Texas iPhone app! Download this hot new wedding app to find the latest wedding tips trends and fashions, tons of breathtaking florals, creative cakes, gorgeous gowns, hot wedding color combos and so much more! Browse through hundreds of dreamy Texas wedding pictures broken down by category in the handy “Idea File” and save your fav images in your “My Favorites” folder. See what other brides have done by cruising through galleries of real weddings. Search by color, style and venue! Stay “In The Loop” with the latest and greatest happenings in the North Texas region. Search for the top DFW wedding vendors that will make your day spectacular and contact them directly through the app! There is even a section dedicated to finding your dream wedding location. Visit Luxe Locations to get a snapshot inside of some of DFW’s best venues — sort by price, capacity and location!  This app is just what you need to be inspired! Find the app in the Apple iTunes store by searching Brides of TX. The app works on all iPhones, but you’ll need the latest software update on your iPhone to download the app. Enjoy!

The Reata Restaurant, which is nestled in downtown Fort Worth’s Sundance Square, is the ultimate restaurant for legendary Texas cuisine. This four-story grand rooftop restaurant is home to nearly 20,000 square feet, a rooftop bar and dining patio and six private dining rooms. The Reata is the perfect place to host a charming rehearsal dinner and/or wedding reception, and can hold up to 250 guests! The gorgeous restaurant offers its dining guests more than 120 wines to choose from and delectable dinner options such as Buffalo Manicotti with Alfredo Sauce or Grilled Mahi Mahi topped with Lobster Florentine. Delish! The Reata also offers its clients the opportunity to have its enticing Southwestern cuisine delivered. Reata on the Road catering business delivers the total Reata experience along with custom menus for your own private party or reception. Contact Private Dining Coordinator Anna Cotton to reserve your date and Catering Manager Mary Gallagher to get the Reata on the Road experience. Don’t miss out on this fabulous venue. Enjoy!

We’re head over heels for non-traditional bridal portraits – it’s the perfect opportunity to wear you wedding gown one last time! If you’re a bold and daring bride, and weren’t planning on saving your dress, take a chance and try a Trash the Dress photo session! Often captured on the day after the wedding or even on your one-year anniversary, Trash the Dress photography is a unique alternative to preserving your gown for a future daughter – who knows if she will still want to wear it in 20+ years anyway? We just love the dramatic contrast between plain, unusual, and even dirty scenery with a beautiful, white wedding dress. Surprising your hubby with a gift of these cool, sensual shots is such a sweet idea! A TTD photography session can be as subtle as laying on the grass or as extreme as paint splattered across your wedding gown! Whatever your artistic vision can dream up, let go and have fun with this shoot! A non-traditional bridal portrait like TTD will be a stunning, creative addition to your nuptial photo album! These photos will be one-of-a-kind masterpieces you’ll cherish forever!

Photos: top and bottom left-Amanda Marie Portraits | right-Nine Photography

If you haven’t seen Terani Couture, you’re definitely missing out! This line of beautiful cocktail dresses, found at Bridal Boutique in Lewisville, would make the perfect rehearsal dinner attire or a fabulous little white dress for the reception! We love how each dress is covered in lavish beading and trendy floral designs. You’ll stand out for sure in these posh styles! Enjoy!

When life gives you lemons, make a party out of them! We simply love nature’s citrus hues of bright lemon yellow and vibrant popping lime green. Incorporate them into your wedding palette to keep things cool during this hot season! Kick things off by letting your guests know an event to remember is coming with these elegant, handmade invitations from Paper Planet. Your bridesmaids are sure to be flattered with this Love by Enzoani dress in silky taffeta available at Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth, Bridal Boutique in Lewisville and Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. And don’t forget to save some color for yourself! Everyone is in for a pleasant surprise when they see sassy yellow suede Christian Louboutin pumps peeking out from under your gown! This table top design from BBJ Linen in Dallas emits a fun atmosphere your guests are sure to enjoy. Keep that sweet and sour theme going throughout the reception by decorating your drink table with the fun fruits themselves. A festive cake like the one shown from Crème de la Crème is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth! The staff at Cebolla Fine Flowers adds a unique pop to this fabulous floral arrangement by putting lemons in the water bowl. Frozen lemonade is always a crowd favorite. This theme is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds! Finally, end your fabulous night on a sweet note with these personal pecan pies tied with a fun lemon bow from Bella Flora of Dallas. Enjoy!

The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak in Dallas is excited to host a trunk show for Christos Bridal July 30-31st! This world-renown brand is known for creating timeless, romantic gowns, bustling with luxurious French Alencon lace. We absolutely love how each gown is designed with such beautiful detail! Don’t miss out on this fabulous event! Call to book your appointment today 214-871-3611.

City Club Fort Worth is offering a special promotion on their fab ballroom! For the flat rate of $9,000 with a minimum of 100 guests, you will get a wedding coordinator, cake cutting service, 3 hour soft bar, 4 hour reception and so much more. This special promotion is only available on a limited basis for the following dates, October 23rd, October 30th and November 27th. Don’t miss this awesome opportunity, book now by calling 817.878.4051! This offer lasts until August 10 or until the dates are filled. For more information, check out their website!

Many couples choose not to see each other before the ceremony in order to keep the “first look” a surprise. That’s always fun, but we think there’s something to be said for sneaking a peek before the nuptials. It can be an exciting and private moment to have before the “I do’s” and allows you to get some great pictures beforehand. Amanda Marie Portraits did a beautiful job capturing these priceless moments for Michael and Megan. We’re sure glad they chose to do this so we can admire these adorable pictures! Congratulations to the happy couple!

We just love the idea of personalized goodies for your guests! Check out this super cute collection of custom gifts from Party City. Whether you decide to include them in a welcome basket perfectly placed in your guests' hotel rooms or even to surprise your maids during a bachelorette weekend getaway, we're sure they'll love these personalized items! These adorable luggage tags might just be our favorites! You can custom design your gifts to perfectly reflect the theme of the wedding or just any look and theme you love. Visit your local Party City to browse their fantastic selection!

Registering for your wedding can be one of the most fun parts of the process. Jacksons Home and Garden in Dallas, offers an extensive product line, making it easy to get carried away! While you’re there, be sure to check out the many lines of china that they have available. One of many, Park Designs offers several designs of everyday dishware sure to suit your style. Of course, don’t forget to explore items to accessorize your outdoor space, too! Jacksons Home and Garden has everything you need to make your place perfect for entertaining; you’ll find pottery, kitchen and outdoor appliances, gas grills, patio furniture, fireplaces, fountains, gazebos, decorative furnishings and so much more! Your groom will be more than happy to accompany you on this shopping trip! Your home will stand out with high-quality items from Jacksons Home and Garden. Stop by in person to register or check out their website to get your list started ahead of time.

Who says plain paper plates are a must for outdoor festivities? These bright, gorgeous plastic plates are the perfect way to fancy up your picnic! Dishwasher safe and beautifully designed, we love these pretty, bargain-priced pieces! Any bride and groom would be ecstatic to receive such a pretty present! Find these and more unique gift and registry items at Madison in Dallas! Enjoy!

We've got a special discount for the Fort Worth Bridal Show this weekend! Print off the coupon shown above and bring it to the show to receive $1 off admission! If you know any brides-to-be be sure to pass this along to them too! Mark your calendars and be sure to stop by this Saturday and Sunday, July 17 and 18, at the Amon Carter Exhibit Hall in Fort Worth from 11 am to 4 pm! Don't miss the chance to meet with talented local wedding vendors and make sure you stop by the Brides of North Texas booth to pick up a complimentary copy of the Spring/Summer 2010 issue while you're there! See you this weekend!

Most of us have all heard “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” as one of the most popular wedding traditions.

What about jumping the broom? In African tradition, jumping the broom is a symbol of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new. It represents a time when the vows of slaves were not legally recognized.

At the end of a Jewish ceremony, the groom smashes a glass with his foot while the guests shout, “Mazel Tov!” Among many interpretations of this custom, most say that the shattered glass is a reminder of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem.

In many Indian weddings, mehndi, or henna, can be seen on the hands and feet of the bride and groom. Mehndi signifies the strength of love in a marriage. The darker the mehndi color, it is believed, the stronger the love and bond between the couple.

We love the idea of embracing your family’s background and incorporating cultural traditions into your wedding day. It’s a special way to personalize your soiree, following handed-down rituals from around the world. Add some international flair, or just a simple family tie-in, to make your wedding uniquely yours. We'd love to hear from you! What customs or traditions will you include in your upcoming wedding?

Photos by: Top Left-Humza Yasin Photography, Top Right-KJ Images, Bottom Left-Humza Yasin Photography, Bottom Middle-Holland Photo Studio, Bottom Right-Holland Photo Studio

There are some super exciting bridal events coming up and Brides of North Texas has the scoop on each one!

The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak,  in Dallas hosts an Angel Sanchez trunk show, July 16-24.  Come browse the latest styles in wedding gowns and preview the Fall 2010 collection. You'll adore the whimsical designs and flawless fabrics!  Call The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak, 214.871.3611 today for your appointment!

It's time for The Fort Worth Bridal show!! Check out Fort Worth's top wedding pros and get tons of inspiration to help plan your wedding. The show is from 11am - 4pm on July 17 & 18 at the Amon Carter Exhibit Hall, 3400 Burnett Tandy Drive, Fort Worth. Brides of North Texas will be there, so stop by and hi and receive a complimentary copy of  Brides of North Texas magazine!!

We just love these fun, vintage-inspired pieces from Stella & Dot! Cahoots Handbags in Gainesville will be hosting a Stella & Dot jewelry trunk show on Thursday, July 22 from 5-8pm. In traditional Cahoots fashion, they'll have gorgeous bites with sparkling sips and jewelry all night - plus big sales throughout the store. All brides who come in will receive a Cahoots bridal goodie-bag. So be sure to check this show out! Cheers!

Spice up your reception with fun patterns and textured fabrics! How cute are these one-of-a-kind French antique chairs from Chair Couture? We stumbled upon this fab find and could not wait to share. Unique and nature-inspired fabrics are created specifically for each piece. We wish we could have them all! Find more unique seating options locally at Gloss Luxury Rentals, Celebration Event Rental and BBJ Linen.

How beautiful is this scenery! Mira Vista Country Club in Fort Worth offers an absolutely breathtaking landscape for your wedding reception! This luxe location is home to one of the most exceptional championship golf courses and features many options for hosting a lovely wedding, both indoors and out. Impress your guests with tall ceilings and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the sunset. Is the groom planning a Guy’s Golfing Day the morning of? Why not use the impressive, scenic course at Mira Vista? Accommodating up to 500 guests, you can rely on the skilled banquet and catering professionals at Mira Vista to plan the ideal event. For detailed information on booking your date, contact Julia Pearson at 817.294.6639.

We are loving the subtle, clean look of a light blue, pale pink and beige. Start with this amazing dress for your maids by Swoon. The sky blue, V-neck with ruffle detail and the soft, A-line skirt will look stunning on any bridesmaid. The adorable double-wrap sash adds the perfect touch. Find this dress locally at Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. Accessorize the dress with these exquisite chalcedony Ted Muehling earrings and this beige Nancy Gonzalez croc tote, which is perfect for carrying all wedding necessities! Pair them with Valentino sandals for a summery and flirty look. The marvelous earrings, tote and sandals can all be found locally at Stanley Korshak in Dallas. Make sure that your guests have plenty of time to plan ahead by sending them these elegant invitations and save-the-date cards! This one from Simply Personal in Addison, Texas, is perfect for a romantic event. Complete the look with stunning florals! This pale pink bouquet from Cebolla Fine Flowers in Dallas pulls the look together and looks fabulous! Add some pizzazz to your bouquet with this shimmering gold and diamond fairy pendant brooch from Kubes Jewelers in Fort Worth. Enjoy!

We’ve uncovered four exciting events that every North Texas bride-to-be should know about! First up—handbag heaven!

Our favorite shop for unique, vintage handbags, Cahoots, is hosting the Kelly Lane Jewelry Trunk Show Thursday, July 8! If you haven’t seen Kelly’s work, you’ll love the elegance and detail she gives to everyday accessories. Check out the prettiest necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings Thursday from 4-8pm at Cahoots Handbags in Gainesville! Enjoy drinks,  hors d’oeuvres, and a special handbag sale!

Hurry over to The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak this week! For four days, the annual Take It Away Sale featuring 65% of sample gowns is in full swing! Take advantage of this mega sale with gowns starting at just $100! What a deal! For more info call Laura at 214.871.3611.

Attention all Military Brides-to-be! Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth is one of many companies in the U.S. sponsoring the Nationwide Military 2010 Gown Giveaway Event with Brides Across America. If you qualify, you will get your bridal gown FREE during the event July 13-15. How great does that sound?? To qualify, you must be engaged, be on active duty in the military, or have a fiancé on active duty in either Iraq or Afghanistan. You must also show a valid ID and deployment papers. Don’t miss out on this special, one-of-a-kind event. We can’t think of anyone more deserving! For more information, call Bliss Bridal Salon at 817.332.4696.

We just love, love, love these amazing bridal shoes from Stuart Weitzman! Inspired by a patriotic palette, these gorgeous red, white and blue heels are perfect for the 4th of July! Look red hot in these chic open-toe red pumps, or change it up for a classical look with this gorgeous utterly feminine white floral sandal. Add a little more fireworks to your outfit with these open-toe blue sling-back pumps with simple bows. Relax and enjoy! You can find these snappy shoes locally at Stanley Korshak in Dallas. Happy Independence Day!

If you’re looking for a venue in the heart of downtown Dallas, be sure to check out The Sheraton Dallas Hotel. Located in a dynamic urban district, this beautiful hotel is an ideal place to host a wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon or celebratory brunch with your family and friends. With seven ballrooms available, you are sure to find a space to meet your unique needs. You’ll find gorgeous views of the city as well as romantic outdoor locations. The hotel offers some great perks if you host your event with them, like a complimentary wedding suite for the bride and groom and exclusive Starpoint offers, which can be used to plan your honeymoon! The Sheraton Dallas Hotel will even set aside a group of rooms at a special price to accommodate your family and friends. You won’t want to miss out on this luxe location. Make sure you check out this romantic spot or for more info, call 214.303-4242.

We’re head over heels for Liancarlo! This couture bridal collection is pulling out all the stops! The ruffle-tiered skirts, the French Alencon lace, even the unique Frosted Pink fabric—we’re in heaven! Make an appointment to view this fabulous Trunk Show July 9-10 at the Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak in Dallas. For more information, contact 214.871.3611. Enjoy!

The excitement is growing around the Brides of North Texas office! We’re wrapping up the August issue and it will soon be on its way to the printer and we’re about to reach 600 fans on Facebook!! This is a REALLY big deal and we truly appreciate each and every one of our fans! Since we don’t have our own reality show…yet, find out about the daily adventures of Brides of North Texas on our Facebook fan page and Twitter! We’ll also keep you up to date with the latest tips, trends and happenings on our Blog. Don’t keep it a secret…make sure to tell your friends and family too! Receive first notice of events and happenings in the DFW metroplex and get inspired by other North Texas brides and amazing DFW wedding pros. Help us surpass the 600 mark today! Don't forget to follow us on Twitter! We appreciate all of your support; after all, this magazine is for YOU! Cheers!

Flowers for the groom and his guys are no longer just an afterthought! Let the men stand out with a trendy, modern boutonniere that reflects their style! With a bright color scheme of lime and purple, this bout from Lush Couture Floral is sure to look awesome in pictures! Bella Flora of Dallas created this classic, monochromatic ivory design with a touch of green, captured beautifully by Thisbe Grace. Another masterpiece from Lush Couture Floral, peacock feathers are sure to be a standout favorite! Perfect for an outdoor shindig, this neutral bloom from Nest Floral Studio in Lewisville uses grass accents tied with a cute mocha ribbon. Your welcome boys!

With the start of summer we couldn’t resist sharing some super fun beachy ideas for your big day!! This sunset invitation from the Station House in Colleyville sets the tone for all the fun ahead! Keep your bridesmaids cool in this summery green dress from Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. And don’t forget to pack these super-cute dancin’ shoes by Dessy! We just love these Moroccan Reed flip-flops and matching tote for your maids all of which are available through Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas! Decorate your guest tables with this breezy arrangement of pink and green hues from Cebolla Fine Flowers in Dallas, and have them sip on these delicious Strawberry Freeze drinks. Don’t forget to include some chic umbrellas to shade your guests from the sun, like this pink paper parasol. What a truly fun and fantastic beachy soiree! Aloha!

If you’re dreaming of a sophisticated, outdoor wedding, we think this Wildcatter Ranch wedding might just be the inspiration you are looking for! Coming up on their first anniversary, Kallie and Justin tied the knot last July with help from wedding specialist Julie Eastman of Extraordinary Events and Design. The lovely bride is shown wearing a couture gown of silk shantung and carried a lovely bouquet of white roses, hydrangeas, willow and greenery carefully crafted by Out of the Garden. The surroundings are breathtaking — the perfect venue for an unforgettable event! Decorated in royal jewel tones, the reception was stylish and stunning with rentals provided by Celebration Event Rental. Hard to miss was the bride’s cake, a unique, multi-tiered confection covered in edible pearls, and the groom’s cake featuring the Marine insignia from Crème de la Crème Cake Company. We hope this adorable bride and groom are enjoying married life and wish them an early happy one-year anniversary! To read more about their story, check out pages A7-8 of the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of Brides of North Texas.

We just love Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club, the epitome of southern charm and grace. With poised professionals ready to cater to your every whim, Heritage Ranch is a luxe location for weddings. A polished ballroom for up to 300 and a pretty outdoor patio, ideal for spring and summer affairs, complete the 24,000 square foot Clubhouse. The expansive view of the surrounding golf course makes a stunning backdrop for such a special occasion. A talented team of catering experts and event coordinators will work with you to create a custom menu tailored to your wishes. Contact Patty at 972.886.4700 for help creating your perfect reception or check out their website at www.heritageranchgolf.com.

Check out these 1940’s and 50’s inspired engagement photos captured by Simple Moments Photography —picture perfect! Recently, Stacey Pinkney of Simple Moments Photography created a themed “mock” engagement session to inspire couples who are planning their engagement shoots. While this session was more on the elaborate side, engagement sessions can be as simple as “a picnic in the park, shopping at the Farmer’s Market, a sunny summer’s day at the sno-cone stand or Frisbee games at the lake,” Stacey shares. Make your pictures extra personal by incorporating a special location or a favorite hobby! For more inspiration, check out Simple Moments Photography online.

We are in love with the crisp, clean look of a navy, lime and white wedding! Perfect for a modern, detail-oriented affair, navy and lime presents an oh-so-cool vibe. This blue, one-shoulder number from Thread can be found at Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas. The belted waist and comfy fabric will flatter any maid! Accessorize your dress or even your bouquet with these exquisite gold and diamond Masriera pendant brooches from Kubes in Fort Worth. Lime and white floral arrangements like these at Cebolla Fine Flowers in Dallas lend a girly touch to the modern surroundings. Give guests a simple way to plan ahead with a cute calendar save-the-date card! This one from Paper Planet in Fort Worth has a cool, transparent look. Finish the evening on a high note with this beautiful lime and white cake, thanks to Frosted Art Bakery & Studio in Fort Worth! Cheers!

It's a busy weekend in North Texas! Check out all 3 of these amazing events happening in the DFW area! What a way to celebrate the first official day of Summer! Enjoy...

Cahoots Handbags is celebrating Customer Appreciation Day, this Saturday, on June 26th! Stop in to the store in Gainesville to be showered in sales, treats and freebies with a purchase. Buy 3 bags or clutches (even at the sale price) and get a free clutch! These bags are a perfect treat for your maids, or gifts for shower hostesses!  Pick up a customer appreciation card and have it stamped at 4 other participating merchants and you'll be entered into a drawing for gift cards of up to $300 that can be spent in participating stores! What a way to be pampered, you definitely don't want to miss this!

This weekend, June 25 & 26, The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak in Dallas will be featuring Lovely Veils! Be sure to call, 214.871.3611, today to make you appointment to browse the collection of amazing Veils & Hair Accessories with Fiona Wysocki! You won’t want to miss this chance!

We're nearing the end of this fabulous promotion by Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth. If you haven't already taken advantage of this amazing offer, be sure to make your way to Bliss before June 30, to receive a $100 gift certificate with the purchase of any wedding gown. $100 goes a long way towards chic shoes, accessories or a veil that completes your perfect look. Bliss Bridal Salon is open by appointment only, click here to request your appointment today! Ciao!

Father’s day is approaching this weekend and we just want to say a big thank you to all of the dads out there that are always looking out for and supporting us in all that we do! Dads are often a huge part of their daughters’ wedding days. There’s nothing more emotional for a father and daughter than when they share that memorable walk down the aisle and special father/daughter dance. We asked our Facebook fans to share their top father/daughter dance songs. A few favorites included "How Sweet It Is” by James Taylor, “I Loved Her First” by Heartland and “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle! If you’re worried that your father/daughter song doesn’t fit the protocol, don’t be! As long as your song means something to you and your dad, that’s what counts! Be sure to find us on Facebook and share your top father/daughter song. Happy Father’s Day!

Images (from left) captured by Edmonson Weddings, Karlisch Photography and George Fiala.

We love, love, love the new line by Chloe & Reese – the Ardour Collection! This exclusive collection of party frocks, available at Bella Bridesmaid in Dallas, comes in countless fabric and color options and your maids will love the line’s chic versatility.  The structured and flirty designs will always be in style –perfect for the modern glamour girl! Enjoy!

This weekend is full of exciting sales and neat opportunities...read below to get the latest scoop on the happenings in the DFW area this weekend!

Mark your calendar for the big Sample Sale! Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth is clearing off the racks and making room for new inventory! From June 17 - 19, Bliss Bridal Salon will have unbelievably low prices for Destination Gowns and Couture Bridal Gowns. With something for everyone be sure to stop by Bliss Bridal Salon and check out their awesome deals! For more information call 817.332.4696.

If you’re on the lookout for your perfect wedding gown, look no further! You definitely don’t want to miss the Douglas Hannant Bridal Trunk Show at The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak in Dallas, THIS weekend, June 18 - 19. To make it even more exciting, special guest Robert De Mattie will be making a personal appearance. For more information and to schedule your appointment at The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak, call 214.871.3611, today!! 

Not the bunch to turn down dessert, we just couldn’t resist cake balls! The Cake Ball Company, located in Dallas, specializes in delicious, bite-sized treats made with cake crumbles, blended with icing and dipped in premium chocolate! Yummy flavors like Birthday Cake, German Chocolate, Red Velvet or traditional Wedding Cake would make sweet favors for a bridal shower or wedding reception! We love how each treat is so perfect! The drizzled chocolate and colored, edible sprinkles make such a pretty presentation. Be sure to check out www.cakeballs.com!

Are you an uber-organized bride? Looking for a way to fuel the passion? Kristin Greenlee Photography is giving away a custom binder through her brand new blog site! The binder will feature design, pattern and colors and possibly images all perfectly customized for your use in planning the perfect day! You may enter up to three times through various mulit-media platforms, so click here to read all the fine print, and enter to win an awesome binder that is truly useful! Cheers!

Cancel your plans! The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak is hosting the Romona Keveza 2010 Collection Trunk Show this weekend! We're crazy about the texture and depth of these feminine gowns! Each gown is full of detail from chiffon ruffles mixed with sleek silhouettes to organza flowers and petals. Stop by June 11-12 to get first pick on these dreamy dresses! For more info, call 214.871.3611.