Even Carrie Bradshaw would appreciate Fashion Night Out NYC 2009

The crispness in the air not only signifies back to school, fall – just around the corner, but also the preview of spring fashion 2010. Living in the fashion capital of the world has many perks, but this year, New York City is pulling out all the stops. They are going beyond the shows, beyond the celebrities, beyond your wildest fashion imagination.

Fashion’s Night Out is the official preview to fashion week. On September 10, all major retailers in NYC will have their doors open late – really late. Just think of it as 'Christmas in September'. While most of the festivities will begin at 6:00pm, there are a few stores that will begin at 5:30. Bergdorf Goodman is one of those stores who will begin early and they star-studded. Mr. Zac Posen, a personal favorite of mine will be there, as he paints one-of-a kind dress, which will be modeled throughout the store. I know first hand that Zac is talented – how? He created a one-of-a-kind dress for me. I stepped into the he picked and he cut (literally) the material around my body while I stood very still. Truly a master at work and a dress I will treasure always.

Just up the street on Madison Avenue, the grand dame of classic, Carolina Herrera invites you to “Come. Be Art,” with Larry Fink. Mrs. Herrera will fete photographer Larry Fink as he unveils his limited-edition book “Night at the Met,” a portrayal of revelers at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Apollo Circle Benefit in 2007. You are also invited to meet Mrs. Herrera and Fink and you can create your own photographs in a digital photo booth set up in the boutique.

At Jean Yu in Soho, you can have lingerie made-to-measure service—what an indulgence! How often do you have the opportunity to have your lingerie custom-made – perfect for your wedding night? A New York extravagance, this service (usually 25 percent on retail prices) will be offered at no additional charge. A do not miss opportunity!

While you’re downtown, Vera Wang will celebrate the night with American Idol judge Kara Dioguardi and other special guests at her ready-to-wear boutique located at 158 Mercer Street in SoHo. If you are more of an 'uptown girl, head to her Flagship store at 991 Madison Avenue, for expert wedding advice from Sylvia Weinstock, floral arrangements by Michael George and other special guests.

The men in your life may not be fashionistas but there are events for him as well. As you shop at Jimmy Choo just down the block , he can take a break and sample John Allan’s pop-up club in Barneys New York. John Allan’s will be offering complimentary cleanups, manicures, and shoe shines so you can look your best from head to toe. With every purchase of a hair, skin, or shave product from the John Allan’s line, you will also receive a special-rate gift card to experience John Allan’s signature Full Service (scalp-massaging shampoo and conditioning treatment, hot towel, haircut, manicure, and shoeshine).

While you’re out, keep in mind that proceeds from the sale of the official Fashion’s Night Out T-shirt will soon be donated to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. We all love great fashion and good bargains, but let’s not forget the men, women and children that won’t be able to enjoy this night. I can’t think of a better reason to buy a t-shirt.

In keeping with the good feeling that you are receiving, you can choose another way to give back. There is a city wide Clothing Drive that will take place, encouraging everyone to donate new and/or gently used clothing. The donated clothing will be given to the NYC AIDS Fund. If you click on the clothing drive link, you will find out which stores are taking donations. Please remember there are people that could use your help ESPECIALLY, during this hard economic time. Most of all, it is good fashion karma.

There are so many wonderful things going on, I wish it was two days. If you need help, here is a link so you can plan your night. What do I recommend - comfy shoes!

Have a great night – and isn’t fashion great?

What you need to know about attending bridal trade shows

Are you newly engaged and never been to a trade show of any kind? Let me tell you, even if you have been to a trade-show, a BRIDAL TRADE SHOW is unlike any you have ever been to before. There are a few things that will help you survive with as little stress as possible. Most of all plan to spend time waiting in line to speak with vendors as you will be with other brides-to-be wanting the same information.

I will be truthful and say that some shows are better than others. Some are larger and sponsored by a magazine like Bride, InStyle or The Knot, others by smaller wedding organizations. Each will bring their personal style and vendors. Go to one of each (I’m sure you will go to more than that), and you will see. Bring your fiancée – remind him that this process is a team effort.

1. Wear comfortable shoes. Even if you are used to walking in 4inch heels all day, the stop/go of a tradeshow will make even the heartiest heel-wearer tired. I’ve seen more than one bride complain about tired feet after a few hours at a show. Bring some flats – you’ll thank me later.
2. Bridal shows will take a long time – so be prepared to spend at least 3-5 hours (depending on the size of the show) walking, talking, listening, and tasting.
3. Bring at least 2 working pens and paper. This may seem like a no brainier, but you will be surprised that when it comes to registering for give-a-ways or initially registering when first walk in, you don’t want to depend on borrowing a pen from someone. Worse yet, you don’t want to register only to find out that your only pen has run out of ink.
4. Enter every ‘give-a-way’ that is offered. You could win everything from a honeymoon, to china, your gown or limo service. It only takes a minute, but could be worth a lot of saved money in the end.
5. Want to make this an eco-friendly trade-show, bring pre-adhesive address labels, if you have them, or print some up on your computer. This will also save you a lot of time when you register for prizes. Most exhibitors will want to know your wedding date, so write it in. This is one of the best usages for those mailing labels that you get in the mail that you were wondering what you were going to do with them.
6. This is no time to be shy. Ask lots of questions, that's why vendors are there. This is their time to answer your questions and for you to see how they respond. Listen to the questions that other brides are asking – they may ask something that you didn’t think of.
7. If you see a vendor that you like, a table setting that is on display or a band that is playing a great song, write it down. Remember that paper and pen I told you to bring, print very clearly any information associated with that ‘thing’ you like. If you have a camera (or a camera on your cell) take a picture so you can remember. This is no time to trust your memory!
8. Some of your best discounts will be given at the show. However, don’t be pressured into doing it. Remember there are lots of people to see and you may want to get recommendations from others who have used their services before you put down a deposit. Ask the vendor if they will extend any show sale price until you have time to look at everything and speak with your fiancé. Most will say yes, and if they say no, really think about it. Do you want to work with some one who is inflexible?
9. Let me say this again…TAKE YOUR TIME!! Gather all the information you can and take it home. Relax, grab a glass of wine and then go through all your goodies with your honey.
10. Bring your fiancé, your Mother and girlfriends. Give them a list of things you are looking for and in an especially large show, spread out. You can cover more space that way. Meet after 1 hour and re-group – share information.

I love a good bridal show. It’s a time to say hello to some old friends in the industry, make some new friends, as well as see what’s new for the next season. While I attend a great many of them, it still makes me sad to see the panic on the faces of prospective brides, or all the prospective grooms hovering near the bar wishing he was any place other than a show. These shows should be fun and if you come prepared it will be. Here’s wishing you a good show!

The little German’s Recipe File I: Riesling Chicken

Recently I've been eating chicken - a LOT of chicken. Sadly, not enough wine but my friends at "The Little German" have combined both to an easy recipie that I think is pretty good. Try it and let me know what you think. Think of it as...a great way to end the summer

Riesling Chicken

1 cup thick-cut bacon, cut into pieces 1/2″ wide

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 leeks, white parts only, rinsed and sliced thin

12 chicken thighs, skins removed

3 bay leaves

4 sliced mushrooms (crimini, shitake, oyster, or a mix)

1 bottle of German Riesling

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Heat the oil in a deep casserole or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it slides easily across the bottom of the pot. Add the bacon. Fry until lightly crisped. Add the leeks and sauté for about one minute - do not brown them. Add the wine, chicken and bay leaves and a sprinkling of salt and pepper (the bacon will have already added some salt to the stew). Bring to the boil, then immediately lower the heat so that the mixture just simmers. Cover the pot and cook very gently for one hour. Remove bay leaves and add salt if needed.

Serve over buttered noodles (if desired). Sprinkle with the chopped dill.

Eco-Wed Wedding Treats!

Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candle - yummmy!

Who doesn’t love a good candle? When you have a candle that you can also use as a moisturizer, it then becomes the ultimate eco-friendly product. Nothing goes to waste. There is such a company that has married the two, uses natural products and is appropriately called “Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candle”.

Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candles are 100% soy candles, infused with a high concentration of fragrance & essential oils to ensure amazing scent. The amazing scent will fill every room in the home. Once the candle has liquefied, it can be used as a moisturizer for your hands, elbows or feet. You enjoy the benefits of soy - its antioxidant powers and rich Vitamin E properties. Finally, once the candle has completely burned out, clean out the tumbler and use it as a drinking glass. A candle made from renewable resource that comes in a recyclable container - WOW! These candles are also available in sets of 12 and the tins can be personalized for any occasion to make them the perfect gift for a bridal shower or wedding. I love a company that believes in ‘waste not soy not’. What are you waiting for? Do something good for the environment, your friends and yourself.

For more information: www.Soy-Delicious.com

Are you getting married in Napa, Martha's Vineyard, Paris or Brooklyn and looking for something unique? Maptote is the perfect way to welcome out-of-town guests and thank them for sharing your day. They won’t have to ask you for directions because this eco-friendly bag with it’s cool map, helps orient guests with their surroundings. These bags are both fun and functional. Because it folds flat, this tote is something the guests will be sure to take home with them and continue to use long after your wedding. Personalize it with your names, wedding date or make it fun with “Team Bride” or “Team Groom”.

Maptote's are great for any weddings especially green weddings because all their totes are made and printed in Brooklyn, NY (which is where they are located!).

For more information on these totes and what cities they have, visit their site: www.maptote.com

Curacao Hotel Kura Hulanda a lovely Curacao wedding destination pt.3

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Today’s visit is to the Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino. This is yet another lovely property on the island of Curacao. This spa and casino offers great rest and five-star amenities that will have you feeling like a star…and don’t be surprised if you see some while there.

Can you tell me about Hotel Kura Hulanda and opportunities for weddings?

At Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino, ceremonies can be held adjacent to the property's two pools or in one of the many courtyards. Additionally, or wedding ceremonies can be performed at the hotel's Museum Square. At the Lodge Kura Hulanda & Beach Club - most couples either prefer holding ceremonies directly on the beach or on one of the many nearby cliffs over-looking the ocean - the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photography.

What are the heavy times of year you're seeing brides?

May is typically the busiest month for wedding ceremonies at both Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa & Casino and Lodge Kura Hulanda & Beach Club

What are the best/signature experiences can a wedding party expect - or most importantly, if a couple is looking for a venue, why would they choose your space/island vs. another?

Everything about the Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino is unique. The intimate setting creates the ambiance of a small village. The Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club appeals to couples seeking a secluded island beach getaway. Lodge Kura Hulanda and Hotel Kura Hulanda, both members of Leading Small Hotels of the World, are one-of-a-kind, five-star properties in Curaçao offering unique ambiences paired with first-class service.

Tell me about the catering, bridal suite, adventures and anything else you want to share with a bride/couple.

Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa & Casino boast the Indian Bridal suite. All the furniture is made of hand –hammered Stirling Silver. The draped four-poster king sized bed is also silver. Remote controlled air conditioning, 30-inch remote controlled flat screened cable TV, DVD, VCR, CD Player, 2 telephones, wireless internet, desk and chair, marbled bathroom with two bathtubs (one made for two) hairdryer, bathrobes and upscale amenities. Accommodates up to 2 persons. The Indian Bridal suite will inspire couples to get married again and again just to experience this lush sterling silver surrounding. Truly a suite fit for a Maharajah and Maharani.

Can you tell me about marriage requirements, costs or restrictions?
With at least three months advance notice, the Kura Hulanda Resots will be able to easily ensure that all papers are processed locally. The average cost is around $300 per couple.

For more info: For more information please check out their site: Hotel Kura Hulanda www.kurahulanda.com