SB! gets published on StyleMePretty!!

If you're reading my blog, you are probably also familiar with the StyleMePretty blog. It's truly one of the most hottest, MOST stylish and trend setting wedding blogs there is. I have been a long time reader and admirer of StyleMePretty.

So, if you can imagine you excitement when I found that they chose "Xochy & Todd's Vibrant Houston Wedding" for one of their featured weddings this past Friday. Xochy and Todd were such a dynamic and fun couple to work with. Their wedding was a true reflection of themselves and their love for each other.

With an intimate destination ceremony, 3 destination photo shoots and a large extravagant celebration at the Houstonian Hotel, this couple pulled out all the stops for their big day. With multiple forms of entertainment for their guests; a DJ who spun on live turn tables, 10 piece band and a casino room, everyone who attended was speechless and amazed. The bride wore a breath-taking gown that converted to a fun party dress with a whole set of new accessories. Everyone danced the night away on a gorgeous, personalized white dance floor customized with the couple's monogram. It truly was a wedding unlike any other.

Having such wonderful companies to work with ensured that the execution of the event went perfectly. Thank you to all the professionals who helped make the wedding amazing!

Event Composition:
Joe Cogliandro
31 Films
LG Entertainers - (Jason Garcia)
DoppleGanger Band
DarrylCo - (Tom/Designer)
Cakes by Gina
Blush & Glow Hair & Makeup
S.W. Casino Productions


Link to the full article: Congratulations Xochy & Todd

Warmest Regards,

Samantha Darr
Lead Event Director
Soireebliss! Events

Tips for a Bridal Shoot

Growing up in the Midwest, weddings were a little different. Culturally, some of the most common trends of today were virtually unheard of in the northern region of the United States. The Groom didn't have a chance to express his hobbies with a separate groom's cake. A charmingly adorable nephew only had the option of being a ring bearer vs. a bell ringer during the ceremony processional. And most importantly, the only time the Bride had the chance to test all components of her wedding day ensemble was during the last dress fitting. Thankfully, the bridal portrait shoot is commonly requested and found as a necessity even to allow the bride a dress rehearsal while having a ton of fun with a few friends and photography. Why only wear the dress for one day when you can wear it for two?!

When preparing for your bridal shoot, here are some tips to ensure your day is a success:

1. Have helpers whether they are members of your bridal party, personal friends or family members. This will give them a chance to see how the dress is to be properly zipped, buttoned and/or bustled.

2. Have a set of cloth white gloves on hand to be worn by those helping to move the train around during the shoot. It helps to protect the dress from sweat and oils. With being in Texas, this is a special consideration considering the heat.

3. Speaking of heat, be prepared for all that goes along with the heat. Spanx is truly the most comfortable item underneath to wear. Bring plenty of bottled water with a straw to stay hydrated to keep a glamorous smile. And oil blot paper. Shiseido truly makes the best with the most successful results.

4. Whether you're shooting inside or out, you will want to protect the skirt of your dress. A cream, ivory or white flat sheet (whichever best matches the color of your dress). Having something underneath your dress' train or for you to sit on will allow you the peace of mind to enjoy the shoot and get some fabulously creative shots.

5. Bring two pairs of shoes. One for comfort which you are OK with walking in the grass and one for the fun shoe pics. No need to scuff up your wedding day shoes!

6. Don't forget to order your bouquet. Not only is this a dress rehearsal for your ensemble, but it's a great opportunity to see how the bouquet will look and feel with your dress. Along with the type of flowers you've selected. Typically, a florist will make a slightly smaller version of the one you will have on wedding day.

7. Schedule your shoot 1.5-2 months prior to your wedding day. This will allow plenty of time to receive the dress from the designer, have it custom tailored to fit you and allow plenty of time to purchase your accessories. Also remember, it's important to have all of your shoes and undergarments purchased prior to beginning your alterations.

Blissfully Yours,

Samantha Darr
Owner/Lead Planner


(Photo Credit: Fort Mill Photography)

Part III: Suggestions & Fashion

A wedding is a tremendous investment. It is important to ensure that everything goes the way you have always dreamt. The dress is such an important piece of that dream. Make sure that when you shop for your wedding dress that you go somewhere that will treat you right and help find the perfect dress.

For our Dallas brides I would highly recommend working with:
- Marianne from Stardust Celebrations
- Sharon from Lulu’s Bridal
- Warren Barron

- Stanley Koershack

- Priscilla of Boston
- For beautiful custom gowns: Nha Khanh

For our Houston brides:
- Mia Bridal Couture
- Princess Bridal
- Brickhouse Bridal

- Winnie Couture
- Belle Mariee River Oaks

At all of the places mentioned above you will have excellent service, selection and expertise.

New Fashion Trends in The Bridal World:

There are some exciting fashion trends in the bridal industry you may want to test out. The feminine softness is the latest theme amongst wedding dresses. We are seeing that less is more.

That being said accessories have become a vital instrument in creating your overall ensemble. Items such as exquisitely beaded belts, broaches, or beaded head bands are easily accessible at any boutique. On occasions you can have decorative flowers or bows attached onto the dress in the places of your choice. If you go with less you can add sweet touches that will make this dress a perfect fit to your personal style.

Today is all about accessorizing!

Always Learning, Always Fabulous,

Vanessa Sinatora
Associate Planner