Collezione Fortuna: LOVE IS IN THE AIR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON-THINK "BRID...

Collezione Fortuna: LOVE IS IN THE AIR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON-THINK "BRID...: We are absolutely thrilled to feature the most outstanding Bridal Collections exclusively found at our Boutique only in Carmel! Don't yo...

LOVE IS IN THE AIR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON-THINK "BRIDAL GOWN" COLLECTIONS

We are absolutely thrilled to feature  the most outstanding Bridal Collections exclusively found at our Boutique only in Carmel!

Don't you feel "love in the air" this Holiday Season?  With many couples announcing formally their Engagements from now until Valentines Day, 2012, Brides will be purchasing their wedding gowns within the year of their wedding date...what an exciting time!

We feature the following Collections at our Bridal Boutique:

Mikaella Bridals
Allure Bridals, including their Allure Couture and Private Collection which is unadvertised!!
White One by Pronovias( which is LaSposa at a more affordable price without skimping on quality or style).
CB-Couture, Casablanca's Couture Collection
House of WU, Jacqueline, and their Private Collections
Sincerity Bridals, Private Collection
Bridal Accessories, Veils, headpieces, by Bel Air Bridals

Bridesmaids-Allure Bridesmaids

Mothers of the Occasion-Daymour Couture, VM by Mori Lee, Alberto Makali Evenings, and Private Collections exclusively found with us only..and more...

We are located at the Su Vecino Courtyard, Lincoln bet. 5th., and 6th., Carmel,CA, (831)626-1287.  For informtion on our Appointments or if you would like to book one..give us a call today! 

Collezione Fortuna: LOVE IS IN THE AIR.....ENGAGEMENTS THIS HOLIDAY S...

Collezione Fortuna: LOVE IS IN THE AIR.....ENGAGEMENTS THIS HOLIDAY S...: THE Christmas Holiday Season is the most popular time of the year for Couples to formally announce their Engagement. With families getting...

LOVE IS IN THE AIR.....ENGAGEMENTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

THE Christmas  Holiday Season is the most popular time of the year for Couples to formally announce their Engagement.  With families getting together, this appears to be the most appropriate time to "pop the question..."will you marry me?"    Whether he gets down on his knees with the little box with the surprise you have been  dreaming about..or he may be  asking your Father's consent for your hand in marriage, it's the most exiting time of your life for the both of you and your families to share!  Christmas to Valentine's Day is the time when most couples become engaged.  Whether or not you have been looking at engagement rings, here are few tips:

Bear in mind there is a budget for your ring.  Shop around to local jewelry stores you can trust. Be sure you have a written appraisal of your rings accompany your purchase. Don't insist your fiance' makes a purchase on an Engagement  that is out of your budget.  Keep your budget in mind and stick to it. 

If you are "surprised" with an Engagement ring and did not get to pick it out, please accept it graciously!  The world isn't going to end.  There will be Anniversaries and milestones to share later where you will either be able to afford your dream wedding set and it will be meaningful.

Congratulations to all the Brides getting engaged...and Happy Holidays!!!!!

    

Collezione Fortuna: BRIDAL TRADITIONS- WHO WILL GIVE AWAY THE BRIDE?

Collezione Fortuna: BRIDAL TRADITIONS- WHO WILL GIVE AWAY THE BRIDE?: In planning your wedding, one of the most important decisions to make, is who will give you away or walk you down the Aisle on your Wedding...

BRIDAL TRADITIONS- WHO WILL GIVE AWAY THE BRIDE?

In planning your wedding, one of the most important decisions to make,  is who will give you away or walk you down the Aisle on your Wedding Day..

Traditionally, it has always been the honour and duty of the Father of the Bride to walk his daughter down the Aisle and give her to her husband.  Symbolically, this is giving his blessing and consent to the marriage, and is an emotional experience for the Father, as his "little girl" is now a "grown woman"  going into another transition in her life.  I cannot think of a better showing of love!

Unfortunately, in today's World, with divorced parents, and other issues, this may not be possible.
 If your Father is not present in your life or deceased, here are some tips on who can be proper choices:

1.  If raised a Catholic, or have a Godparent you still maintain a close relationship, Male or Female.

2. If your Father is deceased and has Brothers, ask the Oldest of the brothers to give you away..if  he cannot for some reason, and there are other Brothers, or Aunts, ask them.

3.  If your Father has been completely out of the picture while you were growing up and your Mother has re-married, your Step-father would be appropriate.  You can have both your Mother and Step-Father.

The list can go on.  I would search within my family first with your parents as first priority, always.  It's a joy to walk your grown child down the Aisle no matter how old you are and the parent!

I would be interested in sharing on who walked you down the Aisle on your Wedding Day. Feel free to leave your posts...!  Enjoy your day!

Collezione Fortuna: WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MY BRIDAL APPOINTMENT

Collezione Fortuna: WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MY BRIDAL APPOINTMENT: Today, there is the Internet selling Bridals, however, nothing surpasses the local "Brick and Mortar" Bridal Salon in your local city to pur...

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MY BRIDAL APPOINTMENT

Today, there is the Internet selling Bridals, however, nothing surpasses the local "Brick and Mortar" Bridal Salon in your local city to purchase your Princess Bridal Gown and your Bridal Accessories to complete your special  individual look as you are!   This also includes your Bridesmaids dresses, Mother's of the Occasion, and much more!  They offer the best customer service, and their consultants are either designers themselves, Couture seamstresses, or have and still operate family owned Retail Businesses with over 40 years experience.   All I can say..they KNOW what they are doing and take pride and passion in their work.

Networking with others across the United States who own Bridal Salons which are all privately owned in the most part, we appear to follow the same guidelines when it comes to our scheduling of Bridal appointments!  Some Salons may vary, but most adhere to the following  policies:

1.  Call the salon to book your appointment.  If they allow email, please respond to confirm no later than 24 hours.  You may lose your time to another Bride if not!

2. Appointments are for 1 hour-5 dresses to try on.  If you are late, the time you are late is deducted from this time, which reduces the time at your appointment. No photos are allowed. You are welcome to take pictures of the dress you have already purchased. If you go over your time limit, there is a $50.00 charge to extend to another hour, which is non-refundable, however most will apply this fee to your Bridal Gown if it's purchased on that day only. 

3. Private appointments there is usually a Booking fee to hold the appointment. Each salon determines their own fee.  This is non-refundable and payment is taken in advance.  These appointments are usually 2 hours, and your Booking fee is applied to your purchase of your Bridal gown on that day only.  The salons will usually allow unlimited access to trying on of dresses at these appointments, some may close the store, and you have full attention of their consultants.  Don't be late!  The time you are late is deducted from the time booked....!

4.  Bring 2 decision makers who are "POSITIVE" in helping you with buying choices that day..95%  of the brides walk out my door with a dress at the end of their appointments!!!!  Also, bring undergarments, and shoes in the heel length you plan to wear with the dress.  Although we  adore them,  please leave small children with a sitter and pets at home during that time.

5.  With endless styles and designers, not even the largest Bridal Salon  carries every style and size in stock!!  Be prepared to see "different" in every salon as each has their own "Niche" .  COMPROMISE!

6. Bring a picture of a gown you have in mind or mention what styles you do not like when booking your appointment.  Always be open to the Consultant's ideas and be willing to try on gowns of different styles.  Many Brides walk out with something totally different and often with the first dress they try on! 

7. It takes 6 months to order your Bridal gown!  Are you surprized???  This is normal time frame as Bridal Gowns are made to order.   If you need special measurements(if you are a Petite Bride) and a rush order..these charges are EXTRA.. and they vary..!.Don't ask the Salon to waive them because they can't!

8.  ALL SALES are Final with Bridal, Bridesmaids, and their accessories.  Be expected to pay for your gown(s) in full whether they are off the rack purchases or special orders!  There may be a contract for you to sign.

9.  Don't automatically assume the cost of Alterations are FREE or included in the cost of the dress. They are extra charges and usually done by an expert in Bridal Gown Alterations.  It's up to the Salon if they want to do these services for free., however, most do not!  Always get a good reference from the Salon of someone who does Bridal Alterations...it's worth every dollar spent and you do not want someone ruining your gown for "FREE."

Ask all questions at the time of your appointment as each salon is different with their policies.  They are there to help and provide you with the best service available!

Your Bridal gown search should be fun!  You will know what dress will be the one you will say "YES" to.  Once you have found it..stop looking.  Be relieved you have found the dress of your dreams and continue with the planning of your Wedding!

Collezione Fortuna: MODEST WEDDING DRESSES-WHAT ARE THEY?

Collezione Fortuna: MODEST WEDDING DRESSES-WHAT ARE THEY?: MODEST Wedding dresses are Wedding Gowns that are "sanctioned" by certain Religions. This is a delicate subject and there is no intent to...

MODEST WEDDING DRESSES-WHAT ARE THEY?

MODEST Wedding dresses are Wedding Gowns that are "sanctioned"  by  certain Religions.  This is a delicate subject and there is no intent to offend or single out any Religious Group or Practices.  It's a matter of respect in the manner of how certain Religious customs are still Traditional in today's environment.

Being brought up a Roman Catholic, I can identify with these Traditions.  At the time of my marriage almost 40 years ago in the Catholic Church, anyone getting married inside the Altar or inside the Church was not permitted to expose their arms, cleavage, back as respect for entering a place that is considered "Holy" or  "Sanctioned" or "Blessed" by a Priest ,Rabbi, ,ect.    Within the last several years, the Catholic Church has become lenient with the requirement, therefore, the fashion trends of today are profound without restrictions, and have become individual choices.

However, there are  Religious Sectors today  that still maintain Modesty for the Bride at all times in her choice of her wedding dress and is not permitted to enter her Church unless her arms, cleavage, and back are covered, as an act of respect for her place of Worship.   Princess Kate Middleton's wedding dress would be considered "Modest" , yet it was also elegant, and yet everyone loved it!  Brides that do not want to wear a strapless dress on their wedding day can also choose to where these styles and give more choices available to every Bride.

Here are some examples of "Modest Wedding Dresses" offered today:

Collezione Fortuna: I AM TALLER THAN YOU..WHAT do I DO??

Collezione Fortuna: I AM TALLER THAN YOU..WHAT do I DO??: ARE you a TALL woman...5'7"or MORE and thin? Many will envy your possible ability to walk the runway, however, don't fret..your ability to ...

I AM TALLER THAN YOU..WHAT do I DO??

ARE you a TALL woman...5'7"or MORE and thin?  Many will envy your possible ability to walk the runway, however, don't fret..your ability to wear anything is all a matter of taste!gown

A Ballgown will be your "Princess Dress" if you decide to go this route,  however,"Couture Elegance" is ideal!

We  hope these recommendations will help you with your
search and make it a lot easier!

Remember, to patronize your local Bridal Boutiques for all your needs!   Authorized Dealers are the ONLY ones that will sell what they advertised in certain Bridal Lines.  Buying ON-Line..please BEWARE...what you see is often what you do not receive.

All images shown Are Copywrited by Allure Bridals and have been used with their consent.   If you are interested in any of these styles, Collezione Fortuna Fashion Boutique & Bridals, Su Vecino Courtyard, Lincoln bet. 5th. & 6th., Carmel by The Sea,CA 93921 (831)626-1287  is an "Authorized "Dealer for Allure Bridals including their Private Lable.  For scheduling an appointment give us a call (831)626-1287.  We are always delighted to work with you!

HOLIDAY SHOPPING FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS..HOW WILL I LOOK??

GOOD MORNING AND HAPPY SATURDAY!

Many Brides will become engaged during this Holiday Season!  They may have already been "looking" around for the dress of their dreams, and the subject we have been addressing is what type of wedding dress will become you!  To continue the subject, we will discuss the following :

PETITE FIGURE:  

A "Petite" figure defines a woman to be 5'4" in her stocking feet ( without any shoes) and under.  Of course, wearing 5 inch Platform Hi-Heels towers us, but that doesn't count!

Your frame is "tiny" possibly a size 6-8 and under .  The best recommendation is to keep your Wedding Dress "simple"and elegant.  A large elaborate Ballgown can appear "overbearing" to your figure. A  Sheath,or an "A"line  should be your first choices, and will have you look like a "Princess!"

Collezione Fortuna: BRIDAL GOWNS TO FLATTER THE "PEAR SHAPE" Figure

Collezione Fortuna: BRIDAL GOWNS TO FLATTER THE "PEAR SHAPE" Figure: A "PEAR" Shape figure is defined to be a woman with a smaller bust line with wider hips. To add balance to your figure, emphasize the "be...

BRIDAL GOWNS TO FLATTER THE "PEAR SHAPE" Figure

A "PEAR" Shape figure is defined to be a woman with a smaller bust line with wider hips.

To add balance to your figure, emphasize the "better half" being the bust-line, here are some examples of flattering gowns for you:

A sheath, trumpet, or mermaid style would only draw attention to your hips, which you would want to avoid.  However,  These are only suggestions , which we offer, and we want to look your best in your "princess" and "feel like a princess" in your Wedding dress!

Collezione Fortuna: WEDDING DRESS TIPS FOR THE FULL FIGURE

Collezione Fortuna: WEDDING DRESS TIPS FOR THE FULL FIGURE: Not every woman is a size 2 or an 8. Did you know today's average size for a woman is a size 14 or larger? There are much more gorgeous ...

WEDDING DRESS TIPS FOR THE FULL FIGURE

Not every woman is a size 2 or an 8.  Did you know today's average size for a woman is a size 14 or larger?

There are much more gorgeous designs in Bridal Gowns available today for the Bride with a "Voluptuous " figure than most.  You have fuller breasts, a bit of a tummy, fuller in the hips.   There is no reason why you cannot look and feel like a princess on your special day!

These are styles that will have you look stunning:

TIPS:

A Ball-gown wedding dress will hide quite a bit, especially your hip area.  A halter-style is fabulous if you need extra support in the bustline.  An-A-line style looks great on everyone and you cannot go wrong with this style.

A dress that laces up in the back works wonders!  It works with your body for a sure fit, and you don't have to worry about that zipper!


NO NO's- Avoid Spagetti straps, and a sheath will emphasize your weight issues instead of making you look thinner.

AN UNRESISTIBLE TESTIMONIAL FROM MARYROSE AND FRANCO

Maryrose and Franco are a very special couple in my life.  Both my husband and I are very close family friends for over 40 years, I was Maryrose's Mother's Matron of honor, and I saw both the newly married couple grow up from birth to being adults. 


The Bride purchased her wedding gown from us, and this is her Testimonial:

You both are indeed a very special couple!  Wishing you many years of love, luck, and happiness!

Bongiorno-FINDING THE PERFECT WEDDING DRESS

WHICH IS YOUR STYLE FOR YOUR FIGURE?

IN continuation of yesterday's topic regarding the "Perfect wedding dress to suit your body figure,  today we will highlight a figure for:

THICK WAIST:

A Wedding dress with an "Empire Waist" is flattering, and will not emphasize your thick waistline, and gives the appearance of a long lean torso.

A Princess-line or basque waist calls too much attention to your middle.

Here are some of our favorites:

Every Bride wants to look fabulous!

FOCUS ON YOUR BODY TYPE: FINDING THE PERFECT FIT FOR YOU

Finding the perfect wedding dress, it is important that it is recognized  what is the most flattering shape for your figure.

 One does not need to try on a multitude of wedding gowns to accomplish this.  

 

Here are some simple guidelines:

 

Hourglass figure :

 

If you have a big chest, big hips, thin waist with curves in the right places,  look for  wedding dress  with an "A" line with a dropped waist. This will show off your curves.  A sweetheart neckline is flattering to your bust-line.  A more "fashion-forward" look would be  a fitted dresses with some flare to the bottom(see photo).  Don't be afraid of trying a mermaid or trumpet style gown.

 I would stay away from Empire-waist styles, as they will make your figure appear "unbalanced."

 

Short Waistline:

Your body is naturally proportioned except for the distance from the ribs to your hips.

Settle for the Princess-line which is fitted at the bodice and opening gradually to a full skirt with the same pattern (see photo on the left) or fabric will make your figure appear longer.  If you want to show your nice shoulders, a portrait or a halter top neckline is another way to go!  Also try a slightly dropped waistline style gown will make your torso appear longer.  

 

I would stay away from the "sheath" style as this will make your short waist appear shorter that what it is.

 

                   TIPS:

 

Bear in mind that weight issues may play a part from the time you are ordering your dress from the time it arrives!    It takes up to 20 weeks for your dress to arrive from the date it is ordered, possibly a bit longer if you need special changes..so allow time!   

Always order your dress in the size you are now even if you plan to drop 20 pounds!  It is much easier to take the dress in than letting it out.  Choose the gown that fits your body type today.

 

This will be continued.................happy reading........and wedding dress hunting!

Collezione Fortuna: EVENING GOWN CLOSEOUT-EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!! gals....

Collezione Fortuna: EVENING GOWN CLOSEOUT-EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!! gals....: HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE! Gorgeous Gals of all ages HAVE YOU HEARD???? OUR EVENING GOWN CLOSEOUT sale starts TODAY! Everything must G...

EVENING GOWN CLOSEOUT-EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!! gals..COME ON IN!!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!    Gorgeous  Gals of all ages HAVE YOU HEARD????    OUR EVENING GOWN CLOSEOUT sale starts TODAY!

Everything must GO!!!  Going to a Holiday Party?  Going to a Special Event AFTER the Holiday SEASON but need  THAT SPECIAL DRESS LATER AND YOU MAY NOT FIND IT LATER and  will "just kick yourself" if you pass it up NOW??????:    Be smart..buy it NOW!  

We need to make room for new arrivals..so this is a fabulous sale..first come first serve and our SINGING MONKEY got his voice back so he will greet you with a song!   Come on by our boutique, located at Su Vecino Courtyard, Lincoln bet. 5th. & 6th., Carmel by the Sea,CA, (831)626-1287...and Happy Holidays!!!

"MAKE ME GORGEOUS"- BRIDAL HAIR STYLES AND MAKEUP TRENDS

From the "bouffant" high styling of the 1960's and 1970's and the "big hair" days of the 1980's and 1990's, hairstyles for Brides and Bridal Parties have taken a new twist for a more natural romantic style today, including makeup trends.

One of the most  amazing Hair and Makeup Stylist  I have seen today is my sister, Joette Catazaro of Salon at Lincoln Lane, located on Lincoln bet. 5th and 6th., Carmel, CA 93921, website, http://www.salonatlincolnlane.com, phone # (831)624-7879.  Her focus is on Bridal, Hair and Makeup, and Print Photography for many local magazine publications.  Her expertise will also refer you to select Bridal Shops if you need a wedding dress, florists, photographers, and much more.

 For more information about her services give her a call!  You won't regret it!