Celebrate 2010 with 'new' designers who will knock your socks off

Photo credit AcQuachiara Bridal

There is something to be said about a ‘newbie’ that not only comes on the scene, but one that makes such a dramatic impact, you’re left with saying “surely they’ve been here for years?” Well I’ve been über lucky this year to be at the launch, or to ‘discover’ some of the winners of my first “New Kids That Rock The Bridal-Block” award.

What makes them amazing? Let’s face it, this industry is tough. In a lot of way, tougher than the fashion industry, because you only have one shot to make a first impression. Impress these folks did. It was the hot, hot, hot bridal designs bringing a bit of their cultural flare to the drawing board, which eventually became the actual creations that caught my eye. It’s fresh, it’s hip, it’s WOW and it’s the newbies who will be on the lips of everyone in 2010. That’s a bridalease prediction and I’m willing to place a bet on.

There are about 20 photos in the slide-show below and the one time I really wish, you could reach in and 'feel' the quality...AMAZING!!

Jorge Perez - photo by Lisa M. Barr

Jorge Perez de la Habana does Cuba proud in the debut of his collection. There is something that is so '1940’s Cuban romance' that will immediately call to you. It’s so caliente, all your groom will need, is a cigar to transport you to this Caribbean island. You can tell every stitch is placed with love and care. I can’t wait to see what his sophomore collection brings.

Minna K - photo by Lisa M. Barr

MinnaK is the next bridal designer you will know on a first name only basis. Clean lines, supple fabric and innovative design. Her cut and color have already captured many in the bridal world this season. MinnaK is truly on her way to bridal stardom.

Photo credit Shanghai Tang

Shanghai Tang for the Bride and Groom (yes a double winner!) for a bit of Asian-chic without flying to Shanghai yourself. Pick your fabric, your design and a few weeks later, a custom one-of-a-kind creation. With options for the entire bridal party, this may be the ultimate one-stop-shop.

Photo credit AcQuachiara Bridal

AcQuachiara Bridal – direct from Italy, their exquisitely made fabrics, rich textures and unique styles were truly a standout for me. There are gowns for everyone – and I do mean everyone. While they have been on the scene in Europe for years, this was their freshman year in the states and I’m sure their sophomore collection will be an immediate hit. The only problem for brides, which one to pick.

I am so thrilled to have been a part of introducing you to these designers. Will they continue to knock your socks off, absolutely. What I really want you to take away from them is, if you truly want unique, one of a kind bridal attire, these are among the designers you should seriously consider.

Congratulations to the winners, I look forward to all the new, new kids on the block for 2010 and tomorrow the best of my ‘Grooming the Groom’. Have to show love for the men in our lives. Until then…

Happy New Years Eve. Be Safe and Have Fun!

Top 2009 eco-friendly and eco-chic vendors

The cotton bride dream dresses for the bride and momthers

I love the overwhelming response I received when I started eco-Wednesday. You folks ROCK!! It proved that there are couples that are truly committed to making this planet a safer place. You are dedicated to finding vendors who had the same belief in your values and you know what – you have the buying power and boy did it show.

Recently, I’ve been asked to write some articles in an upcoming eco-wedding magazine and I’ve been hard at work gathering information for it. What that means for you – you will have another medium to find the best there is in eco-chic wedding information. Don’t cha’ love it? I do.

Here are some of my favorite eco-friendly folks and know that narrowing it down to these was a really, really tough job. I hope that the people, places and things that I highlight in 2010 will be just as exciting and dedicated to saving our planet.

The Cotton Brideand Adele Wechsler both have couture bridal collections for the lifestyles, interests of today’s eco-chic bride. That means they are fun, flirty and good to the environment.

My Personal Artists - uses of original one-of-a-kind hand-painted / hand-illustrated artwork, to create a lovely keepsake for you and your family.

Milo Paper - colorful, fun, innovative, and spunky are just some of the words that come to mind when you choose Milo Paper.

Creative Custom Card Boxes - When you want something beautiful to collect your wedding envelopes that is truly personalized these unique and eco-friendly boxes are the key.

Aglow Soy Candle - Soy is so good when it comes to lighting your future together. Adding a bit of bling creates something that creates additional sparkle to your special night.

Dogeared Jewels and gifts - Most designers suggest that gems worn on your wedding day, be simple and meaningful. Dogeared meets both requirements along with being super stylish and provides enough styles for the entire bridal party. You will be giving and wearing those good vibes.

2009 planner, party dress and wine to match

Marc Wilson Design wedding blooms

We are just a few days until 2010 an if you are looking for someone to design your wedding (or maybe you need someone to get your last-minute New Years even party…), then by all means call Marc Wilson Design. Marc gets to know you, your vision and then brings it to life. When we met this summer – before the colors for 2010 were announced, he told me what he thought would be hot for this upcoming season. Sure enough his predictions were true. If he has that much insight on colors, six months before they are announced, imagine what he can do to make your dreams a reality.

This is not to say that there aren’t lots of wonderful event design houses out there, but remember I don’t and WON’T recommend anyone that I wouldn’t use myself. Marc truly creates an event that is elegance personified.

Wedding designers/planners:
Marc Wilson Design

Twobirds Bridesmaid

The trend is to have your bridesmaids look comfortable and stylish. This means that the dresses you pick are comfy, pretty; in the colors you want – in the multitude of sizes to compliment every girl and yet, allow them their personal style. When I first saw the dresses at Twobirds Bridesmaid, I wanted one for myself. In three words, these dresses are hot, hot, hot! This company listens to and knows what is flattering to your body and best yet, your girls can and will want to wear these dresses out again and again.

Bridesmaids gowns: Twobirds Bridesmaid

Bottlerocket Wine and spirit

Bottlerocket Wine and Spirit, a wine specialty shop who serves brides/couples that have an interest in wine or just want to add an element of fun and elegance to their events. For all couples that are interested in purchasing specialty wines, this company has a great selection of organic, biodynamic and environmentally sustainable wines. You know how much I love a good eco-find!! A wedding registry of wines and spirits can be opened at the 1year, 5year and 10 year anniversaries or compiled "starter cellars" giving the gift of daily wine pleasure.

A different kind of party: Bottlerocket wine and spirit

Cocktails to bring in the New Year

Toast 2010 in style. Happy X-Rated Fusion New Year

Whether you’re throwing your own party or crashing one, offer a delicious twist to the inevitable midnight toast.

After the requisite bottles of champagne have been secured, opt to add a spirited and playful splash of pink to the glass and the party with X-Rated Fusion Liqueur. This is a yummy fusion of ultra premium French vodka and blood oranges, mangoes and passion fruits and one of my new favorite flavors. These fun cocktails are from some of the hottest spots in the US so a big thanks to the Bartenders who created them and are sharing them with me.

Of course you may be going to a party and do want to bring a bottle of the bubbly or two. Make sure you see the wonderful gifts that Moët & Chandon have to offer. I especially love the minis…can’t go wrong with them. These are really great ideas for your receptions so bookmark this page and refer to it often.

This is the dawn of a new decade…make it yours. Congratulations to all you newly engaged couples and remember if you ever wished for a bridal fairy godmother, I’m here. Contact me if you have any special requests. Here’s wishing you every good thing in 2010. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Bitter Bubbles

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
0.5 oz SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
0.25 oz Campari
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Pink Fusion – originally served at Carlucci Lombard, Chicago

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 oz SKYY Infusions Citrus
Splash of Fresh Lemonade
Top with Champagne, serve in martini glass with lemon twist

Passion Punch

2 parts X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 parts SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
0.5 parts Passion Fruit of Mango Puree (or orange juice)
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Bessito - originally served at Asia De Cuba, New York

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 oz Grapefruit Juice
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Love Letter - Created by Adam Wilson of Beretta

1 oz Campari
1 oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
0.75 oz Cointreau
0.25 oz Maple Syrup (should be 1:1 with water)
0.25 oz Small Hand Grenadine
3 dashes of Peychaud's Bitters
Shake. Add Soda. Pour over ice in highball. Garnish with a lime zest.

Red Hot Chocolate - Originally served at 116 Crown in New Haven, CT, created by mixologist John Ginnetti

1 ounce Campari
2 ounces Brandy
3 ounces Whole Milk
0.5 ounce heavy cream (optional)
2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips

Put milk, cream & chocolate in a milk frothing cup used for espresso.

Froth milk as you would for cappuccino. When milk is hot remove frothing wand and whisk or stir vigorously until chocolate is completely melted. Add Campari and Brandy. Pour into heat-resistant cup. Can be garnished with 1 large hand-cut marshmallow or a red peppermint stick.

Perfect sippers and great individual bottles. Yummm

Not forgetting the bubbly, Moët & Chandon keeps celebrating this holiday season simple and chic with the Buckets of Bubbles champagne gift set. The clear carrying case cleverly doubles as an ice bucket, containing four mini champagne flutes that can be attached to the top of the four small bottles of refreshing Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial bubbly included in the set. Buckets of Bubbles retails for approximately $34.99.

Don't you love this 'chill box? 2 gifts in one!

Let Moët & Chandon help you navigate your way through your busy social calendar this holiday season with a simple gift that is sure to leave a lasting impression on each and every recipient. The Moët Chill Box consists of a bottle of Moët & Chandon Impérial enclosed in an elegant gold container, designed to maintain the champagne’s ideal drinking temperature for two hours. A stylish yet practical gift, the Moët Chill Box is your go-to item all the way from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. This item is available in most fine wine and spirits stores this September at no added cost when you purchase a bottle of Moët Imperial for $39.99.

Highlight of destinations and locations for your wedding day

Neckers Island - BVI

I’ve been looking through the almost 200 articles I’ve written since March 1, 2009. I’ve gone through and checked them twice. I’ve compiled my list of some of the many amazing vendors and/or locations I wanted to highlight once again. Why, because some of you are at the very beginning phase and others are toward the end. You never know if one of these vendors could be the answer to that last ‘thing’ you need.

I will say right up front that none of them are compensating me in any way to pick them, re-post anything about them. These are truly just a few of my favorites. This also doesn’t mean that I don’t love them all and think that they are all worthy it’s just…well, I wanted to do a round-up.

The Crosby Street Hotel - NYC

There are so many hotels, but I absolutely love the Crosby Street Hotel, NYC because of its British flare and fun. From a proper Hi-Tea, to a martini perfectly shaken, to your own private screening room, this is the place for you. Also, I picked this hotel because of their commitment to the environment as they will soon become GOLD LEED by the US Green Building Council making it one of the first hotels in NY to do so. We love a GREEN hotel that exceeds our comfort expectations right?

The Liberty Hotel - Boston MA

The Shorham Hotel, NYC – Chic, sophisticated and the ability to have your own red-rope makes this a modern space where the only limits would be based on your imagination.If you are looking for a little south beach flavor, the Shoreham is the place for an evening cocktail and where you can enjoy a little bit of Miami in midtown NYC.

The Liberty Hotel, Boston, MA – Gives new meaning to a lifetime commitment. A converted prison in the historic Beacon Hill section of Boston is beautiful. Exposed brick and yes even some of the original jail bars add a unique touch and added fun for your pictures.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Gansevoort South Beach Hotel, Miami, Fla – It’s south beach – what more can you say. The food, flavor and flare is hot, hot, hot!

Mandarin Oriental NYC – If you are looking for couture with a view, this is it. The Mandarin Oriental pays attention to every major and minor detail. Your wish is fulfilled almost before you speak it. With cuisine that cutting edge, it is a blend of the something old with something new.

Neckers Island

Neckers Island, BVI - If money is no object this private island can be yours. All I ask is if you do choose Neckers Island I'll happily take care of all the arrangements for you. The staff, food and beauty of the island are only the beginning. Private coves, warm breezes, your own wait-staff. To say that you honeymooned on Sir Richard Bransons island...priceless when it comes to bragging rights.

What locations and destinations are coming up in 2010 – you won’t believe it!! I will say that they are the locations, destinations, venues (and lots more of the things) YOU are asking for. So feel free to email me at bridalease {at} gmail dot com, and ask away. I can hit to my first destination...it's truly a winter wonderland with french flare. Tomorrow I’ll highlight my 2009 wedding planner and event designers and bridesmaids’ gowns. See ya then…

Celebrate 2010 with something old and something new

Toast 2010 in style. Happy X-Rated Fusion New Year

Whether you’re throwing your own party or crashing one, offer a delicious twist to the inevitable midnight toast.

After the requisite bottles of champagne have been secured, opt to add a spirited and playful splash of pink to the glass and the party with X-Rated Fusion Liqueur. This is a yummy fusion of ultra premium French vodka and blood oranges, mangoes and passion fruits and one of my new favorite flavors. These fun cocktails are from some of the hottest spots in the US so a big thanks to the Bartenders who created them and are sharing them with me.

Of course you may be going to a party and do want to bring a bottle of the bubbly or two. Make sure you see the wonderful gifts that Moët & Chandon have to offer. I especially love the minis…can’t go wrong with them. These are really great ideas for your receptions so bookmark this page and refer to it often.

This is the dawn of a new decade…make it yours. Congratulations to all you newly engaged couples and remember if you ever wished for a bridal fairy godmother, I’m here. Contact me if you have any special requests. Here’s wishing you every good thing in 2010. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

(Yummy pictures of the drinks are in the slideshow below. Remember to have fun and be responsible.)

Bitter Bubbles

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
0.5 oz SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
0.25 oz Campari
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Pink Fusion – originally served at Carlucci Lombard, Chicago

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 oz SKYY Infusions Citrus
Splash of Fresh Lemonade
Top with Champagne, serve in martini glass with lemon twist

Passion Punch

2 parts X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 parts SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
0.5 parts Passion Fruit of Mango Puree (or orange juice)
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Bessito - originally served at Asia De Cuba, New York

1 oz X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
1 oz Grapefruit Juice
Top with Champagne, serve in a flute

Love Letter - Created by Adam Wilson of Beretta

1 oz Campari
1 oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
0.75 oz Cointreau
0.25 oz Maple Syrup (should be 1:1 with water)
0.25 oz Small Hand Grenadine
3 dashes of Peychaud's Bitters
Shake. Add Soda. Pour over ice in highball. Garnish with a lime zest.

Red Hot Chocolate - Originally served at 116 Crown in New Haven, CT, created by mixologist John Ginnetti

1 ounce Campari
2 ounces Brandy
3 ounces Whole Milk
0.5 ounce heavy cream (optional)
2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips

Put milk, cream & chocolate in a milk frothing cup used for espresso.

Froth milk as you would for cappuccino. When milk is hot remove frothing wand and whisk or stir vigorously until chocolate is completely melted. Add Campari and Brandy. Pour into heat-resistant cup. Can be garnished with 1 large hand-cut marshmallow or a red peppermint stick.

Perfect sippers and great individual bottles. Yummm

Not forgetting the bubbly, Moët & Chandon keeps celebrating this holiday season simple and chic with the Buckets of Bubbles champagne gift set. The clear carrying case cleverly doubles as an ice bucket, containing four mini champagne flutes that can be attached to the top of the four small bottles of refreshing Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial bubbly included in the set. Buckets of Bubbles retails for approximately $34.99.

Don't you love this 'chill box? 2 gifts in one!

Let Moët & Chandon help you navigate your way through your busy social calendar this holiday season with a simple gift that is sure to leave a lasting impression on each and every recipient. The Moët Chill Box consists of a bottle of Moët & Chandon Impérial enclosed in an elegant gold container, designed to maintain the champagne’s ideal drinking temperature for two hours. A stylish yet practical gift, the Moët Chill Box is your go-to item all the way from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. This item is available in most fine wine and spirits stores this September at no added cost when you purchase a bottle of Moët Imperial for $39.99.

It's begining to taste a lot like Christmas

I can I hardly believe it’s the night before Christmas. Where did this year go and what am I going to do for New Years eve?

Well a few of you asked for different cocktail recipes that you could serve now, through New Years beyond the traditional ones. Here are a few that I absolutely love and will have for friends and family as they pop over. They are easy to make and really pretty to look at. So deck the halls and lift a cup of holiday cheer. Don’t forget, while you’re having fun drink responsibly.

Here’s wishing you lots of goodies and may all your dreams come true this holiday season.

Candy Cane Swirl

Candy Cane Swirl
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Raspberry
3 oz. Red Cranberry Juice
0.5 oz. Grenadine
0.5 oz. Peppermint Schnapps
Lemon Lime Soda
Candy Canes

Rim martini glass with crushed candy cane. Combine SKYY Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, Cranberry Juice and Grenadine into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with Lemon Lime Soda and garnish with small peppermint candy cane.

Mele Kalikimaka Martini

A creative twist on a Bing Crosby classic, the Mele Kalikimaka Martini is ”Hawaii's way to say Merry Christmas to you.” Turning a classic cocktail, contemporary using SKYY Infusions Pineapple and Coconut Cream, the martini adds a personal touch to your typical eggnog and is a surefire way to impress any partygoer. Trust me, this is smooth!!

Mele Kalikimaka Martini
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Pineapple
3 oz. Eggnog
Splash of Coconut Cream or Coconut Milk
Nutmeg
Cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with sprinkling of nutmeg and cinnamon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

The Ninth Night

You may think that you’re done celebrating once the candles burn out in the menorah, but The Ninth Night is the great way to conclude your Hanukkah festivities. A refreshing cocktail designed to commemorate a special (and unofficial) ninth night of Hanukkah.

The Ninth Night
2 oz. SKYY Infusions Citrus
1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. White Cranberry Juice
Lemon Lime Soda
Lime Juice

Combine SKYY Infusions Citrus, Triple Sec and Cranberry Juice into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into tall rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with soda and lots of fresh lime juice. Garnish with blue ribbon or pipe cleaner around the glass.

Cuppa Good Cheer

Whether you anticipate a “White Christmas” or a California “Endless Summer,” we all snuggle up with loved ones and a cup of warm hot cocoa at least once during the holiday season.

Cuppa Good Cheer
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Cherry
0.5 White Creme de Cacao
4 oz. Extra Hot Chocolate
1 oz. Half and Half
Whipped Cream
Red Sprinkles
Maraschino Cherry

Combine all ingredients into a holiday mug and top with whipped cream, red sprinkles and a Maraschino Cherry.

Infuse passion into the New Year with a flashy cocktail featuring SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit, fresh juice and raspberries. The New Year’s Sparkler is an easy way to spice up your champagne flute this New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Sparkler
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
1.5 oz. Pomegranate Juice
3.5 oz. Champagne
5-6 Raspberries

Combine SKYY Infusions Raspberry and cranberry juice in a chilled champagne flute and top with champagne. Garnish with raspberry tree.*

*Slide 5-6 raspberries onto long skewer and place vertically in champagne glass.

This is one of my favorite drinks. I greet my guests in from the cold, winter weather with a traditional cup of Holiday Glögg, a Scandinavian take on mulled wine. Made in large batches and easily reheated time and time again, this recipe is a great one to have in your back pocket for any surprise guests.

Holiday Glögg
12 oz. SKYY Vodka
1 Bottle 750 ml of Dry Red Wine
1.5 tbsp. Mulling Spice
1 tsp. Fresh Orange Zest
2 tbsp. Sugar
2 tbsp. Blanched Almonds
4 tbsp. Raisins

Wrap Mulling Spice in cheesecloth. In a large saucepan, combine the Wine, SKYY Vodka, cheesecloth with Mulling Spice, Orange Zest and Sugar. Allow to very lightly simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes (do not boil). Discard the mulling spices. Drop a few raisins and almonds at the bottom of each mug and top with the hot liquid.

I'm hope you enjoy this holidays drink selection. I can't wait to share more with you in 2010.

Happy Holidays One And All

Love your bridal fairy godmother

The party starts with Marc Wilson Design

Marc Wilson of Marc Wilson Design

There are certain things that make every bride happy on her wedding day: Her groom arriving on time and sober, her perfect dress and of course, her reception looking better than she imagined. The first two…pretty easy, but the third you are trust that someone will make your vision, your wedding dream a reality. Of course you know Collin, Preston but do you know Marc? If you don't, you should.

Marc Wilson of Marc Wilson Design combines light, sophistication, whimsy and dramatic lighting to create breathtaking locations and spaces for your wedding. There are samples of his attention to detail and style in the slideshow, but they don't do him justice. He is truly just that good.

I caught up with Marc at his studio for a few moments to discuss the upcoming bridal season. Marc, tell me about the trends you see happening this year?

"If you think about home décor trends over the last few years, all those colors the pantone forecast colors have made their way from the pages of magazine and those charts through the fashion industry and now more and more in the event design industry. So I pay attention to those, but I also work with the bride to make sure on her wedding day she isn’t disappointed.

This season the colors I’ve seen include honey gold/yellow, warm olive, burnt sienna, Rapture Rose, American beauty. These are some really beautiful colors and I have created great combinations for the bride that wants to be a little more daring and get away from the very traditional ivory linens. For a winter wedding why not go with deep Amethyst and Gun Metal (silver)? It would add unexpected richness and warmth to the reception. I often recommend that they go bold and make a statement at their reception. For the 2010 spring season, the more popular colors include Tomato Puree, Fusion Coral, Violet, Tuscany, Pink Champagne, Dried Herb, Aurora and Amparo Blue to name a few. However, Pantone 15-5519 Turquoise was just named "the color of the year". I'm looking forward to using it in our upcoming designs and seeing where else it pops up throughout the year".

What should a couple do before they meet with you? How should they prepare? "Well, just come with some ideas of what you’re thinking of. If would be helpful if you have an idea of where you’re going to have the reception – this way I have an idea of the size of the venue. I know that brides go through all the magazines, so come in with clips of colors you like, pictures of locations you like. Know your budget. We can work together to build the best of these things to create a space that is unique and special".

Marc also has a unique and innovative line called “Wedding in a Box by MWD”. This combines elegance and affordability for the discerning bride. Here the bride can choose from seasonal arrangements and craft a package that meets their style and budget.

“We have every type of bride and especially in this economy, we realize that couple are watching their budgets, but still want the glamour. That’s why I came up with Weddings in a Box. I don’t think any couple should have anything less than the very best they can afford".

Marc is a gifted and talented designer whose subtle elegance, sensuous style and ability to create magic in subtle accents is why he is in demand. Give Marc a call and schedule your appointment to discuss your dream day. Marc is on facebook so friend him for updates or give him a tweet.

Marc WIlson Design and Production - 51-02 21st Street, 7th Floor
Long Island City, NY, 11101 - (212) 749-2266

Italian bridal couture by Acquachiara for US brides

Insert photo caption or credit here

There are some new to the US designers that will blow you away, but none are more spectacular than
Acquachiara. Their couture designs drape a bride to emphasize the neckline, ribbons and bows, with touches that remind you of pure European elegance. There are crystals that look like dewdrops and floral clusters that look so real you almost smell the roses. Acquachiara is a vision and their garden theme uses innovative style with a contemporary twist.

{Take a look at the slide show to see their top designs}

These high-end wedding gowns, entirely handmade in Italy with precious Italian materials, have been created since 1985. Every dress is the dedicated study of the quality of the fabrics and harmony of the shapes, with the highest attention to the smallest detail. How can you feel anything less than a princess in one of these dresses? Like each unique bride, the collection has its own history, personality and spirit.

Made to measure, each order is a one-of-a-kind making every gown as unique as your wedding day and just as special. Unique, distinct and very personal you can rest assured that you feel the amoré. This is their first venture to the US market and we are so lucky to have them here.

For more information please visit these sites:
www.flairdistribution.net
www.acquachiara.it

For a smooth shave, call Craig the Barber

Somewhere, there was someone who thought five o'clock shadow was sexy. I think on George Clooney perhaps, I'd even say my ex boyfriend, but on your wedding day, absolutely not.

I am so thrilled to have met Craig Whitely known to a worldwide clientele as 'Craig the Barber' at a recent event. Craig is the owner of the Grooming Concierge, the consummate source for the grooming needs of Hollywood's most powerful men. For years Craig has been working with some of Hollywood's hottest men, teaching them simple tricks to stay groomed without going overboard. Today, he's sharing Steps to a Great Razor Shave with you.

For some reason, more and more men have learned how to shave from a 20 second Gillette commercial. I love Gillette, but I don't think they intend their ads to double as shaving tutorials! The results are confusion as to why they just cannot get a close shave, or worse, not knowing how to prevent shaving irritation. So let me help you out! Below I am pleased to share with you Craig the Barber's quick & Classic Shaving Tips, guaranteed to give anyone the perfect shave.

(1) Prep: Most men go straight into shaving without making sure that their face is clean and properly moistened. Lack of moisture is a main cause of post-shaving irritation.

Solution- Clean you face with warm water and your face wash of choice (I'm currently using Multi-Action Face Wash by LAB Series). Then apply your pre-shave oil and shave cream or gel (I prefer, shave creams).

(2) Shave: Shave with the grain. If it is not close enough, re-lather (keeping the face moist) then shave across the grain. If you are someone that gets irritation form shaving then going against the grain should be your last resort. .

(3) Refresh: This is an extremely important step. Why? Because you've just finished removing a thin layer of skin off of your face with a razor! Invest is a good post-shave product, one that will heal and moisturize your skin, so it can be ready tomorrow for another shave.

I know what you must be thinking... this sounds like a lot and you don't have time. I hear this a lot from my clients as well. However, it should not take any more than 10 minutes out of your morning. Besides, if you enjoy a smooth shave without irritation. Instead of a shave that feels like you used a dull kitchen knife, then 10 minutes out of your day can't be that bad...right?

Craig is a wealth of information and a wonderful resource. Please feel free to check out his website, www.themensroom.comfor tons of great information. Craig has graciously agreed to be one of my 'go-to' guys for all your grooming needs so you'll hear from him again soon. If you want to stay in the know, become a fan of his on Facebook (The Men's Room by Craig the Barber) and get the latest updates on Twitter @CraigTheBarber. Here's to a smooth shave and a great weekend guys.

The Crosby Street Hotel NYC brings London to US brides

Tucked away on a cobble-stoned street amply called Crosby Street is the newly opened Crosby Street Hotel. From the moment you enter you are transported from the busy streets of Soho, to charm of London. There is so much to take in almost immediately. The giant lettered head sculpture, the paper-Mache cartooned dogs and the fabric on the walls calling you to touch them. Yet all of this is perfectly matched as Jazz plays softly through their soundsystem.

The Crosby Street Hotel New York, is the newest gem of the Firmdale Hotel (UK) collection and gem it is. Located in Soho between Prince and Spring, the Crosby hotel takes into account the charm of Soho and adds a British twist. The interior design and unique décor is the passion of award winning Kit Kemp, owner of the London based Firmdale Hotels herself. There are also unique sculptures by Jaune Plensa that you will adore and be amazed by.

As luck would have it, or maybe it was simply asking because of this article, I was given the grand tour of this luxury hotel by Craig Markham Dir of Marketing and PR.

First and foremost and I know a lot of hotels say this but you will truly have personalized service. Here like in their UK locations you will receive “white-gloved” service that is an unexpected pleasure. There are 86 unique and individualized bedrooms and suites on the 11 floors each having high ceilings and full length, ceiling to floor warehouse-styled windows. There is a drawing room with fireplace, courtyard gardens, and a state of the art screening room (just in case you want to show a movie of how you met).

“The goal was to create a place with comfort at every corner. Every room or suite has everything amenity that you could possibly need; we try our best to exceed our guests expectations. By creating a garden oasis we have made sure that none of the rooms are opened to a ‘wall’. There will always be natural light streaming through the rooms or the twinkle of the lights from the garden at night. Every detail was created to make sure that your stay would be memorable.

In any of the private event rooms you can have the privacy you desire with all the opulence you could dream of. Use the “Lafayette room” for your welcome cocktail and then use both the Prince and Spring rooms for your dinner and dancing. I really love the idea of hosting a private ‘movie’ using the screening room.” How many other places can offer you this – your very own movie theater for the night??

Finally, this hotel is committed to you, your guests and the environment as they will soon become GOLD LEED by the US Green Building Council making it one of the first hotels in NY to do so. So you can feel good about having your wedding, rehearsal dinner or any event here as if you needed another reason.

I’ll say that I have a fondness for things British. I attended graduate school there, ‘found myself’ there, and go back when time and the dollar conversion allow. The whimsical details, charm and proper high tea at The Crosby reminded me of some of the best days of my life. Long live the Queen, and long may The Crosby Hotel reign.

For more info: The Crosby Hotel: 79 Crosby Street New York NY 10012
T: +1 212 226 6400 F: +1 212 226 0055 E: crosby@firmdale.com
www.crosbystreethotel.com

Ines DiSanto 2010 collection bling-alicious

There are designers that really make me excited and Ines DiSanto is one of them. It was wonderful to be a part of her celebrating ten years of haute bridal couture at the Jumeriah Essex House during bridal market. Her theme for 2010 was “Global Extravanza” and her designs didn’t disappoint. She has always captured the admiration of an international audience because she sets the trends by constantly reinventing the most important garment a woman will choose – her bridal gown.

Born in Italy and raised in Argentina her designs reflect (to me anyway) a mix of both cultures and the flavor of both nations. Ines says, “Fashion is an expression of who I am. I want my designs to be a living work of art on a blooming bride.”

{You've got to check out more slide show photos, the dresses are bling-a-licious}

So let me set the stage… The entire collection was inspired by the mystique and allure of what is the most special item in the world – diamonds. Lights dim and “Diamonds are forever" plays. The entire audience erupts with “WOW” as the gem-encrusted bodice takes its place as the first creation shown. The excitement didn’t stop until Ines took her final bow. There are shimmering silks and satins that were accented by Swarovski crystals and beading against various pale greens and blush tones. Each stone added undeniable luster to Ines’ designs. There are flouncy pleated ruffles, classic silhouettes and other equally dreamy designs – especially the mini-dress…again WOW!

If there was a show-stopper this season for me, it was Ines DiSanto. I'm a fan and think you will be too.

For more info: To see these amazing creations you can visit her site, or visit Bergdorf Goodman or Neiman Marcus.