Archive for the ‘Events’ Category
Wednesday, April 10th, 2013
Photos: Artista/Cordúa Catering
Celebrate spring with tomorrow evening’s ridiculously lavish I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian and you could end up with a second springtime celebration on your hands (and your palate): a $100 dinner for two at Churrascos, Americas or Artista restaurant.
Here’s the scoop: One bride who scoops up her last-minute pre-sale tickets to tomorrow evening’s super-luxe bridal fantasy Happy Hour at downtown Houston’s stunning Corinthian will WIN a $100 gift certificate for dinner for two at the Cordúa restaurant of her choice any time during the month of April. Options include deliciously traditional Churrascos, sophisticated pan-Latin Americas and ultra-romantic Artista—all overseen by renowned executive chef David Cordúa.
As for tomorrow evening’s post-work fête, well—we can’t reveal the gorgie-gorge details, but we can tell you it will be an evening of incredible food, drink, entertainment, bridal couture and design inspiration you shan’t forget. So don’t forget to get your tix!!
TO ENTER TODAY’S GIVEAWAY: 1.) Purchase pre-sale tickets BY 11:59 p.m. TODAY, WED., APRIL 10, to the I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian 2.) If you haven’t yet, *Like* us on Facebook.
That’s it! We’ll notify our randomly selected winner at tomorrow evening’s bash!!
Tags: Cordúa, I Do! Bridal Soiree, The Corinthian
Posted in Bridal Show, Events, Giveaways | No Comments »
Monday, April 8th, 2013
Photo: Stefanie Somers
There’s a reason why renowned designer Stefanie Somers is the reigning queen of pageant, prom and performance jewelry: SPARKLE. Nothing catches the light like a dazzling pair of Stefanie Somers earrings—as style-minded, bling-loving brides everywhere are discovering for themselves.
Find out what all the Stefanie Somers fuss is about by WINNING a pair of “Artemis” earrings, retail value $225, from the gorgeous Stefanie Somers Collection just by purchasing your tickets to this Thursday’s intimate and luxuriously relaxing I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian. These spectacular earrings, made by hand with Swarovski elements, feature pavé crystals on the front and back for maximum shine, along with hypoallergenic titanium posts for maximum comfort. They’re the perfect complement to just about any gown style, hairstyle and “I do” moment.
As for the I Do! Bridal Soiree—this Thursday’s after-work cocktail party is a perfect combination of relaxation, VIP treatment, fine food and wine, and absolutely stunning wedding-design inspiration. Mingle with a hand-picked selection of Houston’s most-sought-after wedding experts and vendors on The Corinthian’s mezzanine level, then indulge in incredible food, cocktails, decadent desserts, live entertainment and an interactive fashion show on The Corinthian’s main level. Bring a friend or two and enjoy the pampering you deserve at the most delicious bridal Happy Hour you’ll ever attend.
TO ENTER: 1.) Purchase pre-sale tickets BY 11:59 p.m. TOMORROW, TUES., APRIL 9, to the I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian 2.) *Like* us on Facebook
That’s it! We’ll notify our winner live at Thursday’s event!
Tags: I Do! Bridal Soiree, Stefanie Somers, The Corinthian
Posted in Bridal Show, Events, Giveaways, Jewelry | No Comments »
Thursday, April 4th, 2013
Mmmm…Masraff’s! This landmark Houston dining establishment is consistently ranked as one of the city’s finest restaurants—but, honestly, you’ve gotta taste it for yourself. Even better: Taste it for yourself for FREE, by winning today’s one-day-only giveaway.
Yup, one lucky bride who buys her tickets to next Thursday evening’s I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian—the perfect antidote to a whirlwind season of big bridal shows, and just about the most lavish Happy Hour you’ll ever hope to attend—will score a $100 Masraff’s gift certificate, good for a decadent dinner for two. Garlic-seared calamari, caramelized diver scallops, pan-roasted escolar and a perfect filet mignon are just a selection of the impeccably prepared dishes you’ll encounter at this classic Houston seafood-and-steak spot, along with irresistible desserts, fine wines and an ideal environment for dressing up pretty and making goo-goo eyes across the table at your groom-to-be. Aww, you’ve gotta love THAT.
And don’t forget—Masraff’s is also an amazing place to wine and dine special guests for your rehearsal dinner or engagement party. Looking for that incomparable Masraff’s flavor for your wedding? Consider tying the knot at The Wynden, Masraff’s exclusive Tuscan-style venue, where the focus on food is second only to the focus on…YOU!
TO ENTER TODAY’S GIVEAWAY: 1.) Purchase pre-sale tickets BY 11:59 p.m. TODAY, THURS., APRIL 4, to the I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian 2.) *Like* us on Facebook.
That’s it! We’ll notify our randomly selected winner next week!!
Photos: Masraff’s
Tags: I Do! Bridal Soiree, Masraff’s, The Corinthian
Posted in Bridal Show, Events, Giveaways | No Comments »
Monday, April 1st, 2013
You don’t need to be a model (or have the body of one) to photograph like one. Not when Joe Cogliandro is behind the camera. The multi-award-winning Houston-based wedding and portrait photographer is creating something of a stir with his sultry, artful boudoir photography, which rivals the finest editorial layouts in the world’s top fashion magazines. The subjects of his gorgeous boudoir shoots? Regular gals—many of them brides-to-be—just like, well…YOU.
Find out just what it feels like to live out your photographic fantasy by WINNING a $600 J. Cogliandro Photography Boudoir Shoot, just by purchasing your I Do! @ The Corinthian tickets by 11:59 p.m. Sunday, April 7! One lucky bride who snaps up her pre-sale tickets to our most exclusive event of the year will find herself the focus of this very special giveaway prize, which includes styling (with help from J. Cogliandro’s warm and friendly female crew), one full hour of photography, and high-resolution files—which you can transform into the most treasured gift your groom-to-be is ever gonna get. For real.
TO ENTER: 1.) Purchase pre-sale tickets by 11:59 p.m. SUN., APRIL 7, to the I Do! Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian, where J. Cogliandro Photography will be among the exclusive handful of hand-picked Houston vendors showcased at this stunning evening of cocktails, cuisine and couture event design 2.) *Like* us on Facebook
That’s it! We’ll notify our randomly selected winner next week!!
In the meanwhile, check out these gorgeous J. Cogliandro Photography boudoir images, featuring real, in-the-flesh, regular Houston gals…like you!
Photos: J. Cogliandro Photography
Tags: Boudoir, I Do Bridal Soiree at The Corinthian, J. Cogliandro Photography
Posted in Bridal Show, Events, Giveaways, Photography | No Comments »
Thursday, February 21st, 2013
If ever there was a week to clear your calendar for some serious venue visitin’…this is it! The open houses start today, with waterfront eatery and event space Brady’s Landing, which welcomes brides from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for tours, tastings and more.
Then, on Sunday, it’s a bridal-open-house quadruple-header: From 1 to 4 p.m. The Wynden serves light hors d’oeuvre and cocktails courtesy Masraffs, while treating brides to a showcase of fine vendors including Elegant Custom Invitations, Edible Designs by Jessie and Plants ’n Petals. Also from 1 to 4, Pine Forest Country Club shows off its elegant event space and verdant grounds, while tempting guests’ taste buds with light bites and bubbly.
In the early evening hours, it’s Chateau Cocomar’s turn: Turn up at Houston’s fairytale French venue between 4 and 7 p.m. for the chateau’s annual bridal open house, featuring tours, tastes and much winsome wedding fantasizing…
RSVPs are requested for all open houses; make yours, and find out about all the coming weeks’ wedding events and bridal trunk shows, here.
Photo: The Wynden, MD Turner Photography
Photo: Chateau Cocomar
Tags: Open House
Posted in Events, Venues | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 6th, 2013
“The pinnacle of my career” is how Darryl Murchison describes his recent work as designer of the Texas State Society’s “Black Tie & Boots” bash at the 2013 presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. And when you’re talking about a 24-year career that’s included some of the most prestigious corporate, fundraising, high society and private events in Houston (and other cities—our Mr. Murchison’s crazy-amazing talents are in demand from coast to coast, natch), including too many breathtaking weddings to count—well, that’s quite a pinnacle, indeed.
The Pitch
As founder and creative director of legendary Houston event-design firm Darryl & Co., Murchison was the top pick of Ward & Ames Special Events, the official producer of the 2013 Black Tie & Boots event. “They brought this to me and said, ‘We need you, your vision, your creativity. Would you be a partner with us on the event?’”—one of several inaugural celebrations, and, though technically an “unofficial” ball, the hottest ticket in D.C. that weekend. “I presented to them and to Texas State Society, and from there, it was a very quick process. I was in.”
The Party
Held at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort on the Potomac River, the 8,000-attendee event was pure Texas, from the proliferation of yellow roses, to the Kilgore Rangerettes, to the Texas A&M Aggies, to a performance by country legend Charley Pride. It was also pure patriotism—but not the plain ol’ stars-and-stripes kind.
The client said, ‘We don’t want to see overload of red, white and blue bunting,” which was perfectly fine with out-of-the-box designer Darryl M. Instead, the client said, “‘Imagine the Driskill Hotel bar in Austin,’” (one of our faves, btw—we love how the amber lighting illuminates our Manhattan), which Murchison did, and delivered a party palette of “burgundy, deep blue, tea-stained colors,” which went right along with the party’s “vintage, nostalgic, back-to-Texas-roots” theme.
Feb. 7 Darryl & Co. Open House!
Meet the man behind the 2013 Black Tie & Boots inaugural ball, and check out Darryl & Co.’s hottest new wedding colors, patterns, tablescapes and design concepts at tomorrow night’s Spring Bridal Showcase & Open House. And while you’re there, make sure to enjoy bites, bubbly and fine wine, courtesy Jackson and Company—another Houston party-making legend. RSVP now!
Photos: Darryl & Co.
Tags: darryl & co, Open House
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Friday, January 25th, 2013
Are you South Asian bride planning a 2013 or 2014 wedding? Then you will NOT want to miss this Sunday’s I Do! Bridal Soiree at the Royal Sonesta. While every I Do! Bridal Soiree features a selection of highly sought vendors who do amazing things for South Asian weddings, this year we’re unveiling new discoveries for brides planning all elements of their multi-day nuptial celebrations.
We’re delighted to welcome South-Asian bridal designer Sameera Faridi, of Poshak Fashion & Style, and Sameera Faridi Design Studio, to Sunday’s show. Known for her sumptuous bridal creations, featuring luxurious fabrics, rich palettes and exquisite detail, Faridi gives Houston’s most discerning South Asian brides a fantastic alternative to traveling overseas to purchase custom bridal attire.
Make sure to visit Faridi (who, besides being an extraordinary designer, is SUCH a doll), then be sure to check out vendors including Flora & Eventi, The Perfect Touch Linens, Plants ’N Petals and Darryl & Co., plus other top-tier Houston design, rental and floral firms offering specialized services for South Asian wedding celebrations. There is something extraordinary for every Houston bride at the I Do! Bridal Soiree, Pre-sale tickets available for $20 online through noon tomorrow; $25 at the door. We can’t wait to meet you!
Photos: NICO Photography
Photos: J. Cogliandro Photography ~ Flowers: Plants ‘n Petals
Photos: Joey T Photography ~ Flowers: P & P Events
Tags: I Do! Bridal Soiree, Indian, Royal Sonesta, South Asian
Posted in Bridal Show, Events | No Comments »
Monday, January 21st, 2013
Photos: JLM Couture
This week, Now & Forever Bridal Boutique welcomes a very special guest—the insanely talented Hayley Paige—for three days of Spring 2013 glamour and gorgeousness. The fun kicks off with Now & Forever’s Hayley Paige Bridal Bliss event on Thursday, Jan. 24, featuring chilled Champagne, scrummy nibbles, and, best of all, a preview of the super-hot designer’s much-lauded Spring 2013 collection, hosted by none other than the lovely Hayley Paige herself. On Friday and Saturday, Paige sticks around to offer personalized gown customization and styling tips, at a two-day trunk show that’s bound to draw brides in droves—which means you’d better make your
appointment right about now!
Then sit back and enjoy HWB’s exclusive chat with rising star and JLM Couture darling Hayley Paige (who, we’ve gotta say, is just about as sweet as her gowns are drop-dead gorgeous).
Houston Wedding Blog: How did you get your start in bridal design?
Hayley Paige: The bridal design process is not only extremely heartfelt and feminine, but there is a marvelous sense of fairytale. I grew up idolizing Disney princesses and a grandmother who taught me how to sew and bake at a very young age. Design was a natural and inescapable practice.
Prior to coming on board at JLM Couture in August of 2011, I dabbled in ready-to-wear, but solidified my main attraction to the wedding industry by designing for Melissa Sweet and Marchesa at Priscilla of Boston. Bridal is my shtick, and when I had the opportunity to come to JLM, there was a natural sense of creative magnetism and a prospect for a niche aesthetic. We launched the first Hayley Paige season that October. It was a fast and fabulous start!
HWB: What are some of the signature qualities or features of the Hayley Paige bridal collection?
HP: I strive for the collection to have personality and enthusiasm, so I embrace a lot of textural charm. I also focus on an execution of balance between fanciful and polished. Whether it’s applying a delicate eyelet trim to sheer organza flounces or pairing a plunging neckline with a ballet ballgown skirt, the collection explores the most sophisticated aspects of femininity and also dabbles into edgier elements. The look is lively, fresh and happily refined.
HWB: Tell us a little about your spring 2013 gowns—what’s wonderful about this season?
HP: I had a lot of fun with beaded boleros and interchangeable skirts last season, so I will definitely continue to incorporate that type of versatility into the upcoming collection. I also hope to make a strong statement with regards to textural juxtapositions like strong versus soft, twinkle versus matte, and modern vesus organic. You can count on oodles of chunky beading, sheer elements and ombré accents of color.
HWB: What are a few of your favorite Hayley Paige Spring 2013 gowns? What do you love about them?
HP: Guindon, the striped organza ball gown, was my favorite gown from last season. I am ignited by gowns that push the envelope and are aesthetically directed for brand definition. There is a decent amount of style saturation in the industry, so it’s important to focus on a fresh presentation and take a few risks. As in love and relationships, reliability is important, but it’s the spontaneity and wow factor that give you those butterflies in your stomach.
HWB: What are you looking forward to most with your visit to Now & Forever Bridal Boutique this week?
HP: Getting better acquainted with the Houston bride! I love having different demographics to learn from and appreciate. Bridal design not just about creativity and delivering an aesthetic, there is a psychological factor in truly understanding what type of bride you are catering to; who she is and what will keep her on her toes.
Tags: Hayley Paige, Now & Forever Bridal Boutique, Spring 2013, Trunk Shows
Posted in Events, Fashion, Wedding Gowns | No Comments »
Monday, November 12th, 2012
He’s back! That’s right, Lord Wedgwood, direct descendant of Wedgwood founder Josiah Wedgwood and arbiter of gracious entertaining, returns to Houston this week for two very special events at landmark retailer Bering’s.
On Thursday, Nov. 15, from 6 to 9 p.m., Lord Wedgwood takes part in The Rise School of Houston’s “Gifts from the Heart” 13th-annual shopping extravaganza, taking place at Bering’s, and benefiting Houston’s renowned school for serving young children with disabilities in an integrated environment.
On Friday, Nov. 16, Lord Wedgwood returns to Bering’s from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. to present and sign pieces from the Wedgwood and Bentley collection, which features iconic tableware and home décor pieces mixed with contemporary classics, designed to embody modern luxury. And to be a downright spectacular addition to any discerning wedding registry—hint, hint.
Oh—and did we happen to mention that Bering’s is one of just FIVE U.S. retail stores selected by WWRD Holdings (Wedgwood’s parent company) to unveil the new Wedgwood and Bentley collection? The store was chosen, Lord Wedgwood says, because “Bering’s represents one of the most unique retail concepts in the United States. For generations, this one-of-a-kind treasure has offered an incredible array of luxury items for the home, and upscale gifts including Wedgwood china and crystal.” What’s more, he adds, “Bering’s is an excellent place to find gifts for everyone on your list, and they also offer the old-fashioned kind of service that seems near extinction.”
We’ll second that!
While you’re marking these wonderful events on your calendar, here’s the scoop on which Wedgwood and Bentley piece’s are Lord Wedgwood’s personal favorites, in his own words:
“One of my personal favorites is ‘Black Astbury,’ an iconic Wedgwood pattern that first appeared in the early 20th century. It is characterized by a rich, opulent design motif that is hand-decorated with raised paste-work and 24K-gold gilding. Each Black Astbury dinner plate can take up to 10 hours of work to complete. I also love the iconic Wedgwood ‘Pure Gold’ pattern that is based on the traditions of acid-etched decoration and hand-applied gilding. Pure Gold embodies a minimal but luxurious aesthetic.”
Fabulous. We can’t wait to see the new collection, and meet YOU at this week’s Bering’s events!
Photos: Courtesy of WWRD
Tags: Bering’s, Wedgwood
Posted in Events, Registry | No Comments »
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