The search for the perfect wedding gown is still on here in St. Paul. With the many bridal boutiques to visit you may wish to start your search with a specific designer in mind. Allure Bridal features sophistication and romance. Only certified retailers can guarantee the quality and fit of an authentic Allure Bridals gown. Napier Bridal and Formalwear on South Robert Street in West St. Paul is a full-service bridal shop and authorized merchant for the Allure Bridals. Modern takes on traditional ball gowns, romantic gowns with lace overlays, one-shouldered necklines encrusted with a Swarovski crystal accents on fit and flare styles, and romantic ball gowns befitting of Cinderella have been designed by Allure Bridal.

Visit Napier Bridal and Formalwear in St. Paul to find the perfect Allure Bridals gown. As always, schedule your appointment to insure prompt service when visiting any bridal boutique.
by Patricia Ganrude, wedding photographer
St. Paul Bridal Fashion Examiner
May 5, 2010

Black and White Wedding Style

Still searching for your wedding theme? Consider the classic style of black and white. Black and white wedding themes have been in style since the early 1900's; this theme remains timeless and elegant. Black and white couture gowns vary greatly so don't be afraid to try on a few gowns in this style. You'll find hints of black added to retro, modern, and classic styles. The more exuberant personality should consider trying on gowns with a bit more black detail in the skirt and accessories. This Twin Cities bride chose accessories well. Her beauty exemplifies class with elegant long black gloves and a veil trimmed in black satin. Onyx stones set in crystal and silver finish the look. She chose a vibrant bouquet to compliment her look. Vera Wang's Fall 2010 Showcase features black and white designs inspired for you. Her styles can be found online. Also, Marshall Fields is an exclusive retailer for the Vera Wang bridal collection in the Twin Cities. For the budget conscious Kohl's carries a line of Vera Wang accessories that may complete the gown you choose.

Child Photography

Changing direction from primarily fashion to child photography for this post. Easter provided the perfect opportunity to capture images of children being themselves and having a good time. The art of photography has changed. It's now so much more important to capture the child's personality; no longer are parents and family members satisfied with the couple of close-up cute photos. This provides a much more creative outlook from photographers. The creativity begins when the shutter is released and continues through the processing of the print.

Wedding Dress Style in St. Paul

Do you want your look to be sophisticated, classic chic, 1940's retro era, modern elegance, or natural beauty? Collecting ideas from bridal and fashion magazines is key for your makeup and hairstylist but for the perfect dress you will need more. It's time to schedule appointments at St. Paul boutiques. A great start begins with appointments during designer trunk shows.

L'atelier Couture is featuring the designs of Amy Kuschel in a trunk show through March 27, 2010. Amy Kuschel's Spring 2010 designs embody elegance and sophistication. Her self- named 'Clever Couture' collections feature beautiful and affordable courtier gowns. The Amy Kuschel collection offers exquisitely designed gowns ranging in price from $1500 to $5000. Amy Kuschel gowns are created in San Fransisco with materials from around the world. Whether you are searching for the chic, preppy modern, retro, or classic look the Amy Kuschel Trunk Show will not disappoint.

L'atelier Couture is located at 493 Shelby Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota. It is always a good idea to schedule an appointment.

by Patricia Ganrude, wedding photographer for Almari Photography

St. Paul Bridal Fashion Examiner

March 25, 2010

The designers have created fabulous wedding gowns and you have found your dream dress. The fit is perfect and you are gorgeous! Now you must move on to the difficult task of outfitting your wedding party. As a guest you have probably seen many beautiful women - looking less than gorgeous - only because their particular body types did not fit the chosen bridesmaid dress style. Choosing dresses that please and flatter all your bridesmaids may seem nearly impossible. Fortunately, though, designers and websites are helping take the guesswork out of the bridesmaid dress hunt. As you start your search for the perfect bridal party ensemble consider designing individual gowns in the same fabric and color. Short is in and by choosing the short style and varying between strapless, one shoulder gowns, halter style, or sweetheart necklines you will be able to flatter your friends, keep them comfortable, and create a unique look for your wedding day. If you are not in favor of short dresses remember that many of the tea length or floor length gowns also come in gorgeous styles and offer the same fabric choices.

St. Paul is home to many bridal boutiques. David's Bridal is just one of the retail bridal stores that offers brides the opportunity to choose a color palette and many styles of dresses to fit your bridesmaids, junior bridesmaids, and flower girls. Once you have made your color choices and passed the color and code to your friends living outside of the metro area they will be able to shop in your selected fabrics and colors without traveling far from their homes. With all the wedding day expenses your friends will thank you for that - and arrive looking fabulous to your wedding.