Blog - Flair Boston | Wedding Dresses in Boston MA | Bridal Gowns, Bridesmaid Dresses, Accessories, Wedding Dress Cleaning

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Bridal Gown Preservation

Keep your dress flawless and fabulous, forever!

There aren’t too many things that you can keep from your wedding day. Sure, your love lives on, photos keep the memories alive, enter other sappy statements here. While those are obviously true, we’re talking about the tangible things. You can’t take home those plush rental cocktail couches, you can’t keep those fabulous flowers alive forever, and you probably can’t recreate those tasty rice ball passed apps. One thing you can keep, though, is your bridal gown! Sure, if your party was a success your dress is probably a little worse for the wear, but we’ve got a fix for that; gown preservation! From fixing loose beading to eradicating stains to steaming and pressing, preserving your gown is the best way to keep your dress looking “aisle amazing” for years to come. Need more convincing? Here are just a few reasons to preserve your gown:

Click here to learn more and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

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Wedding Hashtags

Instagram with Intelligence!

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life. Who doesn’t relish in being the center of attention for a little while? As fun as being engaged can be, though, I’d bet that most couples would say that it’s equally stressful. Even seemingly light decisions have their complications. Trying free samples of cake? Sounds perfect, until you factor in that 1) it’s not really free per se, since you’re paying for the final product and 2) you have to choose a flavor that everyone in attendance will love. Not so easy! Every wedding decision seems to come with a dash of stress and many come with more than a dash of money exiting your bank account. If you’re feeling that pinch, we think we’ve found the one wedding decision that’s 100% fun and yes, FREE! Put that seating chart aside and take some out to create your wedding hashtag. It won’t cost you a dime, and will ensure that your guests have a place for all of those hilarious candids they’re sure to capture. So, ready to hashtag? Check out our tips for creating the perfect one:

Think unique – While #johnandjulie has a certain ring to it, it has been used over a hundred times already. How do we know? A quick hashtag search on Instagram will let you know if your potential tag has already been created. It would be confusing to have your photos mixed in with a bunch of others, so make your tag more specific to you to better ensure that it’s used by your guests and your guests alone. Incorporate your wedding date, venue location, nicknames, wedding words (hitched, tie the knot…), etc. to give your hashtag some spice and individuality!
Keep it brief – Your guests will not appreciate having to type a ton of letters every time they want to tag a photo, so think short but sweet to encourage them to actually use it.
Make it memorable – Try to avoid abbreviations or acronyms that no one will understand/remember. Consider incorporating a rhyme, alliteration, pun or something similar to keep your hashtag stuck in your guests’ heads, even after they’ve had a few cocktails 😉
Don’t be afraid to outsource – If you find yourself over thinking this whole hashtag thing, it might be time to ask your old friend the internet for some assistance! After all, this decision is supposed to be fun and easy! Try a hashtag generator like this one to get your creative juices flowing.

Once you’ve decided on your unique hashtag, be sure to show off your hard work with one of our custom hashtag signs (only $30!). Adorable, eye catching and sure to have your guests geared up to gram the night away!

in Custom Wedding Hashtag Signs / Social Media at Weddings / Social Weddings / Stuff We Love / Tips from Pros / Uncategorized / Wedding Hashtags / Wedding Instagrams / Wedding Planning Tips 0 comments

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Bluethread Bridal

Giving brides the royal treatment!

Every bride should feel like a princess on her wedding day; that goes without saying. It’s your time to be the belle of the ball and the center of attention. You can eat what you like, drink what you like, talk to whom you like and (equally important) not talk to whom you like. It’s all about you! That princess-like feeling doesn’t have to be limited to just your wedding day, though. Why not start a little early, like with your bridal gown shopping! An easy way to pop some princess into your shopping is by stopping at Flair (duh) and getting acquainted with Bluethread Bridal. This amazing designer gives brides the royal treatment by helping them create their own unique, custom designed wedding gown. Now if that doesn’t scream “princess” then I don’t know what does! Pick your fabric, neckline, skirt style; the list goes on and on! Plus, get your gown in your exact size, made to your exact measurements. Feeling like Duchess Kate yet? We thought so! Of course, they also have some pretty stunning pre-designed gowns to choose from if you prefer. Check some of them out below to get familiar with Bluethread’s fabrics and aesthetic, and then give us a ring to stop by and get started on your custom creation!

OK we know we’re only showing you the back of style S1001, but it’s fabulous enough all on its own, right?!

We have two words for style S1004: romantic and ethereal!

We’re developing a slight addition to the gorgeous texture on style S1017, and that fit is on point!

Bluethread sure knows their trends! The subtle cutouts on style S1016 are perfectly modern and fresh!

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Wedding Morning To Do List

Make your last hours as single lady stress free and smooth!

My twin sister is getting married this weekend! It’s safe to say that planning her wedding has taken over our family’s life for the past few months (or more), and I mean that in the best way possible. It has been amazing working on projects together, and even tackling hurdles together. Because our (yes, our; I feel like this wedding is practically my own, ha!) planning time is coming to a close, I could only think of one thing when it came time to write this week’s blog: the morning of the wedding. Yes, totally selfishly I wrote this blog about the one thing I have left to plan/worry about. But I figure wedding morning to dos are something everyone needs to know about, right? Here are some tips for making your last hours as a Miss stress free and fabulous (and cross your fingers that I remember all of these tomorrow):
1) Food is your friend! Nerves and excitement tend to tell us that we’re not hungry but it’s super important to eat something before the main event. After all, you’ll need tons of energy for all of that dancing and schmoozing! In the days before, find a place nearby that makes a dish that you love and will want to eat no matter what, and assign someone to go pick it up for you. For my sister, it was a simple sandwich. Like all brides, she has been trying to eat healthy prior to the wedding day, and I know she’s going to be so excited to eat that sandwich guilt free! Oh and don’t forget the H2O; dehydration is not your friend!
2) Set the mood. The vibe in your getting ready area should be light and fun! The room should be filled with the music you love and the people you love, oh and a bottle of champagne or two won’t hurt 😉 Have someone in your life that tends to cause you stress? Find a nice way to make sure they are otherwise occupied the morning of the wedding. It’s all about what you want, and what makes you comfortable, so you can focus on getting aisle ready!

We found this cute getting ready photo (courtesy of onelove Photography) on brides.com. Head there to see their list of must play wedding morning songs!

3) Let your dress breathe. Likely your dress will have been cooped up in a bridal bag for safe keeping, so the morning of the wedding unzip and set her free! Letting the gown hang loose for a few hours before the ceremony will allow it to settle and de-wrinkle a bit. Also, having a steamer nearby for any stubborn creases is never a bad idea!

Now that’s a stylish way to let your dress de-wrinkle! Adorable photo from our bride Julie’s big day, courtesy of Sweet Lady Jane Photography

4) So fresh and so clean, clean – assign one of your bridesmaids to tidy up your getting ready room. Most likely your photographer will be taking some photos there, and no one needs to see your guilt free burger wrapper! Another thing to clean – your ring! Make sure that baby sparkles in your shots!
5) Lastly, make sure your emergency kit is packed! Flats, Band-Aids, Advil, bobby pins, breath mints, tissues, touch up makeup, a brush and a nail file are just some of the must haves. Decide what’s important to you and put it in the kit! Also, be sure to have your phone fully charged and ready for all of those congratulations texts!

Tell us – was there something else that made your morning special and smooth? Let us know, and I’ll be sure to pass along any tips from our getting ready experience 🙂

in Advice from Flair / Boston Weddings / Tips from Pros / Wedding Day / Wedding More To Do List / Wedding Morning / Wedding Morning Playlist 0 comments

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Wedding Jewelry

Accessible Luxury at Long’s!

This week we had the privilege of collaborating with the amazing Long’s Jewelers on a fun blog about beach appropriate wedding gowns and jewelry (give it a read here). We so enjoyed working with everyone at Long’s. They are kind, accommodating and really know their stuff! Long’s truly has a piece for every bride’s style and every wedding theme. Want a little color? They have it! Searching for a modern way to wear pearls? Look no further! And of course, they are the bling kings! Working on this project got us thinking about the relationship between your wedding dress and bridal jewelry. You can’t just force two styles together because you happen to like them both. It takes time and work (albeit fun work) to ensure that your gown and jewelry go together. We’ve pulled together a short list of tips/recommendations to help you get started, and be sure to contact the experts at Long’s when you’re ready to finalize your perfect bridal bling!

If your wedding dress is covered in crystals – In our opinion, if you’ve chosen a more intricate gown, we recommend going a little lighter on the jewelry. Our tip: skip the necklace and go for an amazing bracelet and/or earring. The bare décolletage will give some much needed separation between your dress/jewelry and really allow each to shine!

We think these simple and elegant pieces from Long’s are perfect to pair with an intricate gown! Top: Sterling Silver Bamboo and White Topaz Studs Bottom: Siviglia 18K Yellow Gold Bangle with Diamonds

If your dress is simple, clean and strapless – This classic, bare neckline makes way for a world of jewelry possibilities! This is your opportunity to go for a fun, fabulous piece, maybe something a little more modern than the typical wedding jewelry. This is your excuse to really have some fun with your accessories because there’s very little that will clash with your timeless, effortless dress.

Does your dress allow for bolder accessories? Try a little color or even a fun monogrammed piece, like these from Long’s! Top: 14K White Gold Cushion Blue Topaz Necklace Bottom: Yellow Gold Lace Monogram Necklace

If your dress has a vintage vibe – Your jewelry should match! You shouldn’t pair a traditional lace gown with modern, funky jewelry. It will look like your dress and accessories are going to two totally different parties! Buy a timeless gown? Maybe opt for a classic pearl necklace to coincide with that vibe. Is your dress modern and architectural? Then you can totally pair it with a fresh and funky statement piece. Basically what we’re saying here is that your jewelry and dress vibes need to jive.

Vintage and pearls are a match made in heaven, though we're kind of obsessed with that modern diamond necklace, if your dress allows it! Top: 18K White Gold Pearl Necklace, Bracelet, and Earrings Bottom: stunning diamond pendant necklace on a simple platinum chain

A vintage dress and pearls are a match made in heaven, but if your dress is more modern we’re kind of obsessed with the bold diamond necklace below! Top: 18K White Gold Pearl Necklace, Bracelet, and Earrings Bottom: stunning diamond pendant necklace on a simple platinum chain

Now these are just the some basic tips from girls in the dress world; for all the wedding jewelry info you need to know, or to learn more about any of the pieces seen here, contact the amazing staff at Long’s!

in Advice from Flair / Boston Bridal / Boston Weddings / Jewelry for Brides / Long's Jewelers / Tips from Pros / Wedding Jewelry 0 comments

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Amy Kuschel Wedding Dresses

Get to know this dynamic designer!

Ahead of our exciting designer event this weekend, we wanted to take some time to help you get to know amazing Flair friend and designer, Amy Kuschel, a little bit better. Amy will always have a special place in our heart. When Flair decided to expand our bridal gown selection about 4 years ago, she was the first new designer we added to our collection. It was a little scary; at that time we were known mostly for our bridesmaids’ collection, so we weren’t sure how our customers would respond to us dipping our toe further into the bridal pond. We just couldn’t resist Amy’s stunning, modern and romantic gowns though, and we knew you would love them just as much as we did (and still do)! Cut to a few years later and our bridal gown business is booming and Amy’s gowns are thriving at Flair, and with good reason! They are thoughtfully designed, artfully created and beautifully finished. Amy’s extensive fashion background helps to ensure that. With a degree from FIT, years of experience in ready to wear design (prior to the start of her bridal label) and a keen eye for fit and trends, every dress that Amy creates is sure to fit, flatter and wow! On top of that, Amy is committed to using only the finest fabrics, trims, beads and baubles on her dresses. She manages to do all that while maintaining an affordable price point and keeping her production facilities in the USA. Pretty amazing, right? We’re telling you, this collection (and its designer) has it all! Need proof? Prepare to drool over the Amy Kuschel gowns below and give us a call if you want to experience her beauties in person 🙂

Amy Kuschel shows us that sleeves can be modern and sexy, as seen on stunning Jules!

Looking for a short dress, or a dress to change into for your reception? Amy has you covered with her adorable Jackie Lady Stardust dress!

Looking for something timeless, yet unique? Look no further than Lennon! A classic silhouette in that subtle shade of pink; a homerun!

Looking for a little more coverage? Tulip is a Flair all star – it was one of the first styles we bought and it is still going strong. So flattering!

See what we mean? There’s a little something for everyone at Amy Kuschel! We can’t sing her praises enough and can’t wait to see her gorgeous gowns on all of YOU 🙂

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Wedding Checklist

Commonly Forgotten Items

“It is what it is.” “If it’s meant to be, it will be.” “Everything happens for a reason.” “Hindsight is 20/20.” All annoying phrases, am I right? As true as they may be, generally when someone slaps you with one of these, it’s a time when you really don’t want to hear it. Luckily, when it comes to weddings we’ve got the last one covered for you. We’re here with some commonly forgotten wedding checklist items, so that your foresight, current sight, hindsight, and really any sight can have perfect, wedding ready vision 🙂

Your legal documents – Remember that marriage certificate you waited endlessly for at city hall? It’s quite literally the most important part of the wedding day but many brides still end up leaving it at home. Put it on your packing checklist NOW. Also, if you’re leaving the country the following day for your honeymoon, be sure to grab your passport (unflattering photo and all)!

Remembering your marriage certificate ensures you can get a classic, sentimental photo like this one!

Your photos – Obviously you’ll think to book your photographer, but also remember to do your photo homework in advance of the big day. Look at your photographer’s blog and choose some shots that you like. Send them to your photographer in advance so that he/she can get a good sense of the style that you’re going for. Trust us, it will make the day go smoothly and ensure that you get the photos you’ve been dreaming of. In addition, choose someone who will assist the photographer in wrangling guests for photos. This should be someone who knows yours and your fiancé’s family/friends well. So, when the grandparents are needed, for example, this person knows just where to find them!

Vendor meals – It’s customary to provide your vendors who will be on site during the reception with a meal. After all, you want them energized and at their best! Talk to your caterer/venue in advance about having a few less formal meals on hand for them. Typically they will work with you to create a lower priced entrée that your vendors will surely appreciate!

Your ceremony seating – Reception seating is planned to a t, complete with seating chart and all. Yet somehow, brides tend to pass over thinking about their ceremony seating. Decide if you want to designate sides for your family and your fiancé’s. If you have individual chairs, plan on providing extra, as people tend to not want to sit right next to each other if they don’t have to.

Whether you assign seating or not, you've got to admit this sign we found on Etsy is too cute!

Whether you assign seating or not, you’ve got to admit this sign we found on Etsy (link to seller above) is too cute!

Tell us – is there another item you’d add to this list? Let us know; future brides will appreciate your 20/20 hindsight 🙂

in Advice from Flair / Boston Weddings / Tips from Pros / Uncategorized / Wedding Checklist / Wedding Packing List / Wedding Planning Tips / Wedding To Do List 0 comments

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Wedding Rentals

Unique, cost effective additions to your big day!

I was driving around my hometown recently when I passed by a new gym that had just opened. Right away, it struck me as weird. I didn’t take issue with the gym itself. After all, everyone is trying to get fit for the summer, so opening a gym right now isn’t a bad idea. However, it was the physical space that bugged me. With that unmistakable blue and yellow exterior, this space was and always will be a Blockbuster Video store. I spent many a Friday night there with my parents trying to decide between “Father of the Bride” and “Kindergarten Cop.” So, to see it now as a gym was just odd. It made me a little sad to think about how swiftly the video rental market has gone under. We’re the last generation that will remember having to go out of the house to find a new movie to watch. It was a fun experience that I find myself missing from time to time. How fun it was to experience something without the commitment/permanency of buying! Luckily the rental world has expanded in other ways so I can still get my rental fix! For example, the wedding world is ripe with rental opportunities aside from the typical chairs and linens! Here are a few of our faves:

Plants – Talk to your florist about their rental options. You can save some big bucks if they have living plants available for rent! As opposed to cut flowers that are single time use, florists can offer lower prices on plants that can be reused for future events. We love this for the bride/groom looking for a unique, cost effective approach to their florals!

Check out the pretty potted plants at this chic wedding! Photo credit Marni Rothschild Photography

Restaurants – When most people think of weddings, they picture a ballroom. For a different option, consider renting out your favorite restaurant! It’s a personal touch and you know the food will be top notch. Plus, your guests will appreciate a break from the hotel ballroom style wedding that we all certainly love, but have been to before.
Furs – A fur can be a chic, fun accessory for your wedding day, but most of us do not have the budget to invest in a permanent piece. Have no fear, Flair is here! We’re entering the fur rental market and have some lovely pieces that will help you get some even lovelier photos! Contact us for more info and get ready for all of the oohs and aahs!

Fab Flair bride Ali ROCKED her fur! Photo credit Sweet Jane Photography

Tell us – are you (or did you) renting anything fun for your big day??

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Bridesmaids’ Dress Shopping Tips

Set yourself up for dress success!

Planning; when it comes to your wedding, there’s very little you can do without it. From the all important budget planning, to the seating chart, to your ceremony structure and more– advanced preparation is key. The same goes for your bridesmaids’ dress shopping! In order to get the most out of your appointments, prior planning is of the utmost importance. That hour in the store goes by in a snap, so getting organized in advance will help you maximize your time and set you up for success! Since we know a thing or two about bridesmaids’ dress shopping 😉 we decided to pull together a brief list of recommendations for what to do before you visit us:
1) Buy your bridal gown – The wedding dress sets the tone for all of the other attire, so check that off of your list first! Another reason to wait? Designers come out with new dresses 1-2 times per year and you want to make sure you see all that will be available for your wedding season. We recommend shopping 5-6 months in advance of the big day.

Yes, we are totally going to use this blog to shamelessly show off some fab Flair brides/maids who did their homework and shopped with success! Photo credit to the amazing Deborah Zoe Photography 🙂

2) Do your research – There are so many options available these days that it’s best to come in with an idea in mind to help us tailor down your search/selection. Check out real weddings (our Facebook page is a great place to start!) as well as styled shoots in magazines/ blogs. Use those as inspiration to help you head into your appointment with atleast one thing you must have in your bridesmaids’ dresses. You’d be surprised how much that one thing can help narrow down the sea of dresses and make your shopping trip successful and stress free!

Blush and beautiful! Photo credit to the fab Suzanna March Photography

3) Choose your dream team – Your bridesmaids’ dress appointments are not an excuse for a small party. More people = more voices, more opinions and more anxiety! Take some time prior to your shopping trips to decide whose opinion matters most and who you think will really help you choose the right dresses. Bring only those people to your initial appointment; you can always bring more people to any follow up appointments…after you’ve narrowed down the choices!

Making a bridal party of 6 all look happy and amazing? No easy task, but this bride did it right! Photo credit to Studio 1923

Making a bridal party of 7 all look happy and amazing? No easy task, but this bride did it right! Photo credit to the talented Studio 1923

We could go on and on, but if you do those three, main things in advance of your bridesmaids’ shopping, we’re sure that you’ll find your appointment to be trouble-free and triumphant! Tell us if you have any tips for our future Flair brides/maids to add to the list 🙂

in Advice from Flair / BM Boston / BM Dresses Boston / Boston Bridesmaids / Boston Weddings / Tips from Pros 0 comments

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Hayley Paige Wedding Dresses

Coming to Flair soon!

Flair has a fabulous, fashionable new addition – Hayley Paige bridal gowns! We have carried her other line, Blush by Hayley Paige, for some time now and are so in love with it that we simply had to add the original line to our collection, too! There are many similarities between the two lines that we think you’ll appreciate. Both feature lush, high quality fabrics, modern, fresh designs and a unique, stylish perspective that only Hayley Paige can provide.

Hayley’s fashion resume is substantial and diverse. She has worked with Nina Garcia at Elle Magazine, Jill Stuart ready to wear, and has designed for Melissa Sweet bridal as well as the first Marchesa Eternal bridal collection at Priscilla of Boston. All of that experience and hard work led to the start of her own label, and the dreamy, ethereal and irreverent gowns you see from her today!

The Hayley Paige collection is priced between $2000-$4500, which is amazing considering all of the design and detail you get! Check out Guindon – a New England bride’s dream!

Another thing you can expect from Hayley Paige? Some gorgeous backs, like on Leighton!

Want some bling? HP has you covered too! Isn’t Star gorgeous?!

Want to get to know this amazing designer and collection better? Keep an eye on our social media; we’ll keep you posted as these beauties start to arrive! Also, be sure to schedule your appointment for our upcoming Hayley Paige events. Give us a ring ASAP, these will definitely be popular weekends that will book far in advance!

See the Spring 2015 Hayley Paige Collection at our trunk show October 2-4

and then

See the best of Hayley Paige and the Fall 2015 at our trunk show February 19-21

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{ BLOG }

Keep your dress flawless and fabulous, forever!

Instagram with Intelligence!

Giving brides the royal treatment!

Make your last hours as single lady stress free and smooth!

Accessible Luxury at Long’s!

Get to know this dynamic designer!

Commonly Forgotten Items

Unique, cost effective additions to your big day!

Set yourself up for dress success!

Coming to Flair soon!

See the Spring 2015 Hayley Paige Collection at our trunk show October 2-4

and then

See the best of Hayley Paige and the Fall 2015 at our trunk show February 19-21