Happy Thanksgiving everyone

The weather is beautiful in NY today - a balmy 58 degrees. Of course, next week will probably be freezing. I don't care.

I'm in the middle of finishing up all the articles I've been working on and staring to write out my Christmas cards. Yes, I'm one of those people who mails Christmas cards the weekend after Thanksgiving. There is something about getting mail...other than a bill in the mail that makes me smile.

With that in mind and since I can't send you all personalized mail, I wanted to let you know that I am THANKFUL to you, my readers for coming to me from all over the world. I have a few things in the works and while I'm not Oprah (yet!!), I'm hoping you'll like the surprises. So keep reading, tell your friends, feel free to subscribe and stay in the know.

So have a great day and I think I hear my dinner calling.
xo
Lisa

Say yes to "I Do" and give Divine Chocolate as your thanks

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you my faithful readers for…well, being faithful to me. I love receiving your emails, meeting you in person, hearing your comments and helping to make your wedding dreams come true. This holiday season I’m especially thankful to two organizations that are dedicated to giving back and making the world a better place. So as you’re sitting around your thanksgiving table tomorrow, be grateful for your good health, the love of your family and organizations that are making it easy for you, to help others. I'm sure they will be thankful for you as well.

Envisioned a world where charitable giving was a more integral part of many life events.

Two online philanthropic leaders—the I Do Foundation and JustGive.org, the destination for online charitable giving™—have joined forces to better serve the charitable wedding sector.

Recognized by Time Magazine as one of the 50 Best Websites, the I Do Foundation was created to help engaged couples celebrate generously and raise money for the charity of their choice through direct donations, wedding favors and charitable gift registries with major retail partners. Working with nearly 50,000 couples a year, the I Do Foundation has granted more than $6 million to charity in the past seven years.

As a couple you will enjoy a wider variety of ways making your charity and giving experience better. This new merger creates access to over 1.5 million charities worldwide. What a better way to show how ‘thankful’ you are especially this holiday season. Go to the ‘I Do foundation’ and create your registry today. http://www.idofoundation.org/

Follow Just Give on Twitter @justgiveorg or on Facebook

I love a good give-a-way as much as most, and if you are looking for sweets look no further than Divine Chocolate, the farmer-owned fair trade chocolate brand. By purchasing this as your wedding take-a-way, you will be helping to build schools, sinking wells for clean drinking water to villages, providing mobile medical clinics for farmers in remote growing regions, and fostering women’s income generation projects to help women earn additional income for their families when the cocoa season is over. A perfect way to show your love and commitment to a better life for others long after your wedding day. They have a great site, so take a moment to read all about the great things they are doing. http://www.www.divinechocolateusa.com

Follow Divine Chocolate on Twitter @divinechocolate
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/divinechocolate?ref=ts

Once again I wish you and yours a very safe, happy and healthy Thanksgiving.

Your bridal fairy godmother,

Lisa

Amsale, Christos and Kenneth Pool 2010 perfection

Photo with permission from Amsale

There is enough pressure to design one collection but when you design three… I can't even begin to imagine. Somehow, this designer makes it all seem so easy. While each has their own unique style, they are all apart of the creative vision of the one and only, Amsale.

In her Fall 2010 collection, Amsale has redefined chic through her use of modern fabrics, architectural details and unique floral treatments. Her gowns are for the bride who is, above all, an individualist. It is the delicate dance, a balance of timeless and modern, both reaching a perfect blend down to the smallest detail.

Amsale sees Christos as a natural extension of her own collection, as both are rooted in classic timelessness. A romantic at heart, she reveres Christos as a venue for her more traditional side. In opposition to the modern aesthetic, which defines the Amsale collection, Christos evokes a feeling of fairy-tale, femininity, and romance.

With Kenneth Pool, Amsale’s collection embodies glamour, femininity and drama with all of their grand ball gowns, luxurious fabrics and bead-work. Each gown of course contain couture details catering to the brides need to be in the spotlight.

There is just so much to love, each collection is so distinctive, yet the quality and flare is consistent in them all. Amsale has the ability to make sure that each collection, Christos, Kenneth Pool and her signature brand Amsale, all meet, no exceed expectations of the woman that decides to wear one.

For more information, visit Amslae at their flagship salon at 625 Madison Avenue, 2nd floor. Do call for an appointment (212) 583-1700.

Kenneth Pool




Christos



Amsale

The Landings, a Rock Resort in St. Lucia and Jetblue rock eco-Wednesday.

Bliss at the Landings, a Rock Resort in St. Lucia

Ok, so we've had a few blissfully indian-summer days here in NY. Sometimes just for a split second, I almost forgot that it's November and really, really cold weather is just days away. With that in mind, the thought of having a truly warm destination wedding may seem like a perfect idea.

As you may know, JetBlue recently launched direct flights from JFK airport to St. Lucia. What makes that a big deal? Well, The Landings, a Rock Resort in St. Lucia is now offering several amazing wedding deals so the timing couldn't be better. You know I'm always looking for a bargain for you. You may remember that I've written about them before, if not, let me remind you why they are featured. They are committed to being eco-friendly and offer organic, natural and regional cuisine and beverages, sustainable décor and carbon friendly transportation options. Today, The Landings is offering you 25% off selected packages making this the perfect time to book your trip. Were you planning on eloping on the beach, whisking away on a honeymoon adventure or renewing wedding vows under the stars? At these prices, there is no better time to say "I Do, under the Carribean Moon".

• The “Romance and Elope” package offers a personalized beach wedding for fiancés wishing to escape months of logistics and planning. Wedding ceremonies include a decorated wedding arch, colorful floral arrangements with a bouquet and boutonniere, an Officiate with witnesses and all licensing fees. Directly following the ceremony, Executive Chef Richard Tonks will prepare a private dinner for two on the couples’ villa suite terrace. The six-night package includes deluxe accommodations, choice of breakfast or lunch daily, and evening champagne turn-down. Rates start from $564 per night.
• The “Romance and Escape” package offers an authentic Caribbean honeymoon for adventure-seeking couples. Package includes six-nights deluxe accommodations, choice of breakfast or lunch daily, “his” and “her” beach amenities, an exquisite dinner for two in The Beach Club and a selection of exciting excursions, including the choice of one of the following activities per person: snorkeling, SCUBA diving, rain-forest zip-lining, golf or a lavish spa treatment at the RockResorts Spa®. Rates start from $431 per night.
• The “Romance and Renew” package encourages couples to honor their marriage and years of wedded bliss by renewing their vows. The six-night package includes deluxe accommodations, a sunset beach side ceremony, a private romantic dinner prepared in the couples’ own villa suite, a relaxing couples massage in the RockResorts Spa, choice of breakfast or lunch daily and a framed picture of the ceremony to commemorate the experience. Rates start from $525 per night.

Packages are available now through May 11, 2010. For more information about The Landings St. Lucia, visit their website WWW.ROCKRESORTS.COM
For more information about JetBlue, visit them at http://www.jetblue.com

Holiday cocktails

When the weather gets cold outside, and the tree trimming and holiday office parties commence, we happily drink in the spirit of the holiday season. Whether it’s the smell of a turkey roasting in the oven, the mistletoe tempting us at every turn or the excitement of the midnight countdown, we suddenly crave celebrations complete with delicious treats, cocktails and cheer, whoever we’re with and wherever we are.

This season, add a personal touch to each and every festivity with holiday cocktails featuring the all natural line of SKYY Infusions. A unique blend of fresh fruit and premium SKYY Vodka, SKYY Infusions offers six ways to embrace the holiday spirit: Raspberry, Citrus, Grape, Cherry, Passion Fruit and Pineapple. Each brings a true-to-fruit taste that is sure to infuse the holiday season with some deliciously sophisticated libations. Any way you serve them, these cocktail recipes will knock the “Scrooge” out of your toughest critics.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. Thick, frothy and decadent, a Cuppa Good Cheer featuring SKYY Infusions Cherry is a mature version of a holiday favorite and certain to keep spirits bright.

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.

Greet your 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.

Jenny Lee Collection 2010

Jenny Lee 2010 Now and Again bridal collection

When you think of consistent quality think…Jenny Lee. She is known for using the highest quality fabrics and creating young, elegant, and feminine bridal gowns that truly enhance a woman’s silhouette.

{The slide show below offers you a front and back view}

Her 2010 collection called 'Now and Again' offers brides the ability to use their wedding dress again with different looks. Imagine that, you CAN wear it again! This collection Jenny used separate bustiers, detachable trains, shorter dresses and bold colors like mauve, lavender, pink, champagne, pearl grey and black to give her brides the ability to think about their look and feel on and BEYOND that special day.

Not taking anything away from her Haute Couture designs, each gown is handcrafted by a single person from the very first stitch to the last. Each are hand draped, pleated and Jenny herself adds intricate hand embroidery and beading giving it a more distinctive look.

To see more of Jenny's collection please visit her website:
http://www.jennyleebridal.com of visit her collections at the following shops: Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier, Kleinfeld or Bergdorf Goodman.

FREE events for grooms, deals for brides Nov. 12-21, 2009

Hey Grooms you can't miss this!! I went last night to their opening and WOW! There are so many wonderful products for men who are keen on looking good. What a wonderful opportunity to experience a 'real shave', have your nails buffed and your shoes shined for FREE!

Lab Series Skincare For Men first-ever New York pop-up store is open now and waiting for you. Inside they are previewing their new men’s anti-aging skincare product as well as celebrating the re-launch of the brand’s new website, www.labseries.com. Go and meet the skin care experts, ask questions about your skin type and solutions to skin problems. Get a sneak preview of the newest innovation in anti-aging for men and navigate the re-designed website. Be a part of this exciting event, go and have FREE grooming services, nail buffing and shoe-shines. They open at 7:00am so stop by before you head to the office or swing by after work to freshen up before your night out on the town with your favorite girl!
When: TODAY, Thursday, November 12th through Saturday, November 14th
Time: 7:00am-7:00pm daily
Where: 43 East 42nd Street, on 42nd street between Vanderbilt and Madison Avenues (adjacent to Grand Central Station)

The Martha Stewart Weddings Luxury Wedding Expo on November 14th and 15th gives you an amazing opportunity to chat with top bridal experts! Sign up now for one-on-one advice, access to top designers and vendors, and insider tips from their editors and a chance to win great prizes throughout the live event. No matter where you are in the planning stage of your wedding, this is a FREE EVENT you don't want to miss and best of all, you don't have to leave your home or office to attend. Hey, no crowds!!
When: November 14th and 15th
Time: 11:00am-4:00pm
Where: http://www.luxuryweddingexpo.com/registration.html

How much do we love a sample sale? It's the perfect opportunity to snag your dress at a fraction of the price. Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier is having an amazing sample sale on Bridal, Evening and Special occasion wear up to 75% off the original retail price. This may be a great time to check out dresses for both the mothers of the bride and groom as well.
When: Tuesday, November 17. Bridal & Evening/ Special Occasion up to 75% off original retail price.
Time:10am to 8pm. By appt only, call 212-319-6778
Where:110 E 55th St, NYC - http://www.bridalatelier.com/ Also note in your calendar that there will be a Badgley Mischka Trunk Show, November 19-21.

Bryant Park Skating Rink is open and FREE admission for the entire season – there is a skate rental fee ($12) if you don’t have your own. So grab your partner, and tell her (or him) how much you can see your self skating through life together.
When: Now until January 24, 2010
Time: Sunday – Thursday 8:00am until 10:00pm / Friday & Saturday 8:00am until 12:00midnight.
Where: Bryant Park 6th avenue at 42nd street – behind the NYC Public Library
For more information: www.thepondatbryantpark.com - or call 212.661.6640

That's it for now...but you never know...

Escape to shape an alternative to 'normal get-a-ways'

Photo credit Escape to Shape

If you’re anything like me, these cool fall breezes only mean that winter is coming too quickly and you’re looking for an escape. I mean I love fall, but winter just makes me want to cook stews, soups, chili and comfort food. You know those days when it’s just too cold to go for a walk in the neighborhood, never mind get to the gym and all you want to do is…nest? Well there is a magical place where you can escape, enjoy exotic locations, eat locally grown organic food AND get in shape. Where is this mystical, magical place you ask….

Escape To Shape is an exclusive traveling fitness spa and cultural resort, with top worldwide destinations, such as Buzios in Brazil; Marrakech in Morocco; St. Petersburg in Russia; Taormina in Sicily, and Cartagena de Indias in Colombia. Next year promises even more enticing escapes for those looking to get in shape, meet new friends, and experience a new culture all in one action-packed, adventurous week.

Yoga guru, travel and fitness expert and entrepreneur Erica Gragg is one of the founders of Escape to Shape and the co-creator of the acclaimed fitness program Bikini Boot Camp and is the author of Bikini Boot Camp - Two Weeks To Your Ultimate Beach Body. Classes are set to music, from tribal, to lounge to classic rock songs, guests are able to find their own personal rhythm and expression through each asana. Erica strongly believes that each and every person can make a difference, even in the seemingly smallest of ways, and that life is meant to be lived and enjoyed, each and every breathe to the fullest.

Now before you pack your girls off for a pre-wedding week of clean living, this is not inexpensive. This package will run you about $3,000 but you will have 6 days, luxurious 5-star accommodations, unlimited workouts, cooking classes, organic local cuisine, spa treatments and every locations offers a little something special culturally. What do I mean? Cultural activities are reflective of each region, such as Belly Dancing lessons in Marrakech; Spanish language lessons in Cartagena de Indias; caviar and vodka tastings in St. Petersburg and Capoeira lessons in Brazil.

I know I’ve been telling you to save money and this seems like an extravagance right? The reason I think it's worth it, I love this GIVE BACK element available at most Escape To Shape locations, providing you the opportunity to give back to the local community. So maybe you and your future partner are looking for an extra-special honeymoon location – this is a great alternative to the ‘normal honeymoon’. It will make you feel good on every level.

For a complete schedule of upcoming locations, teachers and all other information, please check out their site: http://www.escapetoshape.com/index.html

Winter wonderland with Monique Lhuillier

Photo's with permission from Monique Lhuillier

There is a notion that all girls, have a ‘fairytale dream' of what their wedding day will be. What they want their gown to look like, who is their prince charming, and of course the happily ever after right? While she can’t predict the happily ever after, Monique Lhuillier is your designer fairy godmother, making at least your dress dreams all come true. Her 2010 bridal collection was a tribute to fairytale winter weddings. Could the theme for this collection be because she is having her first little girl (due any day now)? Welcome baby Sophia. Can’t wait to see you on the runway!

If living in a fantasy means the WOW-factor, Monique didn’t disappoint. There were lots of over-the-top treatments; fabrics, fancy embroideries, and yards and yards of silk. A-line shapes, with volume on the bottom of the skirt and her signature ‘nipped-in’ waist, all reflected in her 2010 collection. There were feathers, ruffles, beading and of course bows. Each piece in her collection perfect and their names reflected the design: ‘Confection, Miracle, Magical, Meringue, Wonderland and Brilliance’. Truly, every piece was more spectacular than the last. Monique says, “I let my imagination run free for this collection. I wanted my bride to feel like this is HER moment to shine and find herself in her own fairytale dream.” Oh and did she dare to dream…

Of course I’ve interviewed Monique several times and she continues to be a designer who gives to her brides, the very best she has. If your wedding desire is pure fairytale, look no further than Monique Lhuillier.

Monique, thank you so much and all the best with baby Sohpia. We can’t wait to see you both.

You can find your fairytale dress at: Bergdorf Goodman, Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier, Saks Fifth Avenue.
Kleinfield - will have a trunk show Nov 13-14

Monique Lhuillier Headquarters: 1201 S. Grand Ave. 3rd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90015
213.747.8811 t
213.747.9311 f
http://www.moniquelhuillier.com/

Give me once, give me twice, just give me VIVABOX

phot with permissin from Vivabox

Bridesmaids and groomsmen are some of the most significant parts of a wedding, on this we can all agree. However because they are so different, it can be difficult to find one gift suitable for the entire party. Vivabox is the perfect choice for groups of people with different interests and inclinations sharing one thing in common – you, the bride and groom’s eternal gratitude.

Vivabox combines the freedom of choice with the personal touch of a real gift. The bridal party enjoys an initial gift when the box is opened and then can redeem an enclosed gift card for a larger experience of their choosing. Vivabox isn’t just a gift; it creates an unforgettable experience one as unique as they are to you.

Need a gift suitable for all of bridesmaids? Perhaps they all like perfume, but you’re unsure which scent is the best fit. Give the Fragrance Experience vivabox to each bridesmaid, which includes a sample of 10 designer fragrances. After they try and enjoy the various scents, they can use the enclosed Sephora to purchase a full bottle of designer perfume at Sephora. The gift card even includes tax – everything is taken care of- and with a price of $55 each, you won’t break the wedding budget.

For the groomsmen, vivabox has a selection of great themes such as wine, BBQ, gourmet food, coffee and more. The BBQ Experience vivabox includes three full size bottles of grilling spices from Urban Accents to immediately tickle the taste buds. Also included is a gift card to be redeemed from the BBQ Gift Menu. The menu includes premium meat selections from Omaha Steaks like Filet Mignon, Rib Eye, and Boneless Strip – a unique way to give the gift of “grilling”- to be enjoyed now, and later. The BBQ Experience vivabox retails for $90 each- still a steal for the important men in your party.

Vivabox is also the perfect gifting solution for other gift giving needs during the wedding process, with a theme to suit everyone. If you are attending a wedding, you should consider giving one of these as a gift to the happy couple. I’m sure they would love it as well. Currently vivabox has eight sets including Wine, Gourmet Food, Coffee, Tea, BBQ, Fragrance, and two Spa sets. New themes to be unveiled this fall include two Tech experiences (with Apple as their product partner), a Museum experience box (The Met is among their partners), a NYC Tapas experience (with some of the best known tapas hot spots throughout the city as partners), a Magazine box, two Photography boxes, and a Cinema experience.

This is a company that tells me they have no limits on orders, so order for your entire bridal party or just you and your future partner. With a quick turn-around and shipping you can get last minute gifts if you have to. If you are looking for the gift that keeps on giving, and will truly be appreciated, then look no further. For more information please visit www.vivaboxusa.com.

ReOrient yourself Grooms and the only knot you tie won't be on your neck

Photos with permission from Shanghai Tang

"It’s my wedding too and I don’t want a regular tux”. This is what I’ve been hearing a lot from grooms I’ve met at events. "It’s always the girl that gets the dress and I just get ‘rent-a-tux’". Today’s man is looking for something to make this day just as special for him. What if you’re not a traditional tux or suit kind of guy? What if you’re looking for something a bit more unique? What if you just hate ties, but still want a formal look? I think the designers at Shanghai Tang may have an option for you.

They create made-to-measure suits that ‘emancipate’ your need to wear a tie. You can choose from an array of fabrics, including a lush cut-velvet, hand-woven silk jacquards, linen, cotton or silk. Once you have chosen your style, there will be anywhere from ten to twenty measurements from which a ‘toile’ or mock-up of the piece is taken and the construction of your jacket or suit begins. At the first fitting, any changes or adjustments are made and then it’s cut out in your chosen fabric (choose velvet – it feels so luxurious!). A few weeks later – your custom made jacket or suit is ready to be worn.

While having a Mandarin collar may be a new idea to some, there is a growing trend to getting rid of the necktie all together. Raphael Le Masne de Chermont, Executive Chairman of Shanghai Tang, recently created the Mandarin Collar Society. This timely, compelling and slightly cheeky initiative unites men who are shaping the world in diverse fields, such as sports, business, politics and the arts. To spearhead the effort, Shanghai Tang has appointed MCS Ambassadors around the world, including British sprint champion Linford Christie, Michelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire and world renowned pianist Lang Lang.

Ok, so there still may be a bit more fuss when your bride walks down the isle in her dress, but I guarantee you will get just as many oooh-ahhs in a custom tailored Shanghai Tang outfit. If there was ever a time to have something made for you, on your special day, this is it.

For more info: Take a look at their wonderful website, www.shanghaitang.com and if you decide that you too want a unique grooms-look, visit their New York boutique at: 600 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022 - Tel: 1 212 888 0111

Sales, events and other things around town for brides and grooms

Beginning tomorrow, November 6th, I’m starting “First Fridays for Grooms”. What’s that? It’s just for the men in our lives, because they need to feel the love as much as you do. It is completely dedicated to their grooming, wedding fashion (and beyond), gadgets that they will absolutely love, Q&A about the wedding process and how to make it all flow with…ease. So have your groom check out it out tomorrow and you do too.

On to…Steals, deals and events – November 5-14th
Everyone loves a good sale and here are some great sales and events for the first two weeks in November….two start TODAY!

Junko Yoshioka is showing from her latest collection and you will have an opportunity to purchase a beautiful creation at her trunk show
When: November 5 through November 7
Time: call for appt. 212.940.2269
Where: Saks Fifth Avenue - NYC

A. Jaffe and Michael C. Fina are rewarding those of you who do your holiday shopping a bit early this year! For a limited time only, leading jewelry and wedding ring designer A. Jaffe will be opening their vaults and offering up to 70% off on over 200 designer pieces! Specially selected engagement rings, wedding bands, and pieces of fine jewelry are available only at Michael C. Fina.
When: November 5th and 6th
Time: 11:00am-8:00pm
Where: Michael C. Fina - 545 Fifth Avenue - NYC

Do you feel that chill in the air? Are you thinking of proposing?? How about someplace unique? Bryant Park Skating Rink will once again open and they are having their grand opening festivities tomorrow – FREE. Actually, it’s free admission for the entire season – there is a skate rental fee ($12) if you don’t have your own. So grab your partner, and if you happen to feel wobbly as you are asking “Will you marry me?” just blame it on the ice – well, unless you’re a pro-skater, then no excuse. Already engaged and looking for a fun place to host your engagement party – why not in their “Pond Party Room” or my personal favorite place - the Celsius.
When: Opens November 6th at 1:00pm until January 24, 2010
Time: Sunday – Thursday 8:00am until 10:00pm / Friday & Saturday 8:00am until 12:00midnight.
Where: Bryant Park 6th avenue at 42nd street – behind the NYC Public Library
For more information: www.thepondatbryantpark.com - or call 212.661.6640

Temperely London has done it again and you're invited. This is a bridal trunk show you can’t afford NOT to attend. This sale is going to be massive! While you're there, register to win the “Bridal Bliss Kit”. It has with so many amazing goodies, I almost wish I was getting married. Make sure you RSVP with Virginia Ritchie 212.219.2929 or Virginia@temperelylondon.com
When: Saturday, November 7th and 8th
Time: 12:00pm-5:00pm
Where: Temperly London Boutique – 453 Broome Street, 2nd fl. - NYC

The Amsale Design Group will be holding a two-day sample sale by appointment only. Bridal gowns from the 2010 Amsale, Kenneth Pool and Christos bridal collections, as well as dresses from the Amsale bridesmaid and party collections will be for sale. The salon will offer a large selection of dresses and gowns at up to 70% off retail, normally ranging from $3,400 to $10,000. Selection of sizes available.
When: November 7th and 8th
Time: by appointment only 212.583.1700
Where: Amsale Flagship Salon, 625 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor (between 58th & 59th Streets), NYC

Hey Grooms or women who love them. This is for you!
Lab Series Skincare For Men is opening their first-ever New York pop-up store to preview their new men’s anti-aging skincare product as well as celebrate the re-launch of the brand’s new website, www.labseries.com. Go and meet the skin care experts, learn about their skin type and solutions to skin problems, get a sneak preview of the newest innovation in anti-aging for men and navigate the re-designed website. Be a part of the exciting event where there will be grooming services, nail buffing and shoe-shines. Stop by early to start your morning right or swing by after work to freshen up before your night out on the town!
When: Thursday, November 12th through Saturday, November 14th
Time: 7:00am-7:00pm daily
Where: 43 East 42nd Street, between Vanderbilt and Madison Avenues (adjacent to Grand Central Station)

The Martha Stewart Weddings Luxury Wedding Expo on November 14th and 15th gives you an amazing opportunity to chat with top bridal experts! Sign up now for one-on-one advice, access to top designers and vendors, and insider tips from their editors and a chance to win great prizes throughout the live event.
When: November 14th and 15th
Time: 11:00am-4:00pm
Where: http://ow.ly/x41p

In the age of "Mad Men" chic purses by Nikita Lynn Designs

Nikita Lynn Designs

Nikita developed an addiction for vintage handbags at the age of 21 in Gainesville, Florida, from the moment she laid eyes on that tiny piece of handbag history it was love at first site.

While enjoying a cocktail with a friend, she decided to stop dreaming and turn her passion for purses into a reality. She quit her job in corporate America, went to India, and plunged head first into the world of handbag havoc. It was then that Nikita Lynn Designs was created and concepts were turned into clutches, totes, and hobos.

The line provides women affordable bags for every occasion, never skimping on quality and style. Their original signature prints and attention to detail ensure each piece is one-of-a-kind and one you won’t want to part with.

You’ll have a tough time deciding if you want the adorable clutch; perfect for a night on the town or the floral design which is hand-embroidered onto silk satin and with suede details. Why choose get them both. I love that they feature a detachable suede wrist strap and interior zipper pocket for all your valuables.

These are bags that everyone in your bridal party will be proud to use again and again. Why not consider getting special ones for both your mom and future mother-in-law?

Nikita has a large selection of clutches, hobo bags and others that will fit every bridal personality. Nikita Lynn Designs - http://www.nikitalynn.com/