about the cover
In this issue of Tucson Bride & Groom, our cover model is bride Dana Martin, who wed Gregg Sandeman on May 16, 2009.

The enduring symbol of an American wedding, searching for that oh-so-perfect gown is a cherished part of planning your wedding. Whether you bring your best girlfriends, your mother, or your entire family, this rite of passage is all about you and what makes you feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

This year’s gowns vary between extravagant ball gowns to sleek sheaths and fabulous creations in between. How to choose?

Selecting the ideal gown begins in your favorite boutique. Armed with knowledge and taste, the boutique staff is your best resource when searching for the most important garment you will ever purchase. Begin by thumbing through the pages of the fashion magazines, and bring in some photographs of gowns that appeal to you. Then, enjoy as the staff brings you a selection of gowns that fit your taste.

Regardless of the gown you choose, shop early. Like love, beauty takes time, and your gown is no exception. When your order your dream gown, it will be made especially for you. Boutiques we’ve consulted with estimate a four-month lead time to order most bridal gowns.

Once you have selected your wedding gown, it’s time to set about shaping the fashion statements of the wedding party. Your best girlfriends deserve a fabulous look that complements not only your vision for the celebration but also their figures and personal tastes.

Long gone are the days of the identical bridesmaids in boring gowns. Today’s bride may opt for a combination of styles for her bridesmaids: halters, two-piece ensembles and strapless gowns in coordinating hues look beautiful together. This trend is lovely for so many reasons-- when your gal pals look and feel good, so do you!

Remember that you don’t have to limit your choices to “bridesmaids” gowns--major retailers and bridal boutiques alike feature “social occasion” and evening wear dresses that are stunning, well-made and comfortable for your wedding party. We are especially fond of patterned gowns for the ladies--your white or ivory gown will pop against these fabrics and colors!

Whether you have two attendants or ten, the process of trying on gowns, taking measurements, ordering gowns and making alterations takes time. Plan ahead and you’ll all be happy and beautiful on your wedding day.

Your flower girl (or girls) play a cherished role in your wedding celebration. What little girl doesn’t swoon over the prospect of being the flower girl in a sister’s, aunt’s or friend’s wedding?

Dressing this little princess can be nearly as fun as choosing your own gown. Tulle and lace, sashes in bright colors, and tiny floral adornments make flower girl gowns as precious as can be! Their dresses can be ordered to match the colors and styles of your bridesmaids’ gowns, or you can turn your littlest attendant into a fantasy bride complete with a white gown and miniature veil.

The little ladies will adore the fancy shoes, pretty hairdos and jewelry that signify their special place in your wedding celebration. Your florist will be able to give you some wonderful ideas for your flower girl accessories. While the traditional flower girl baskets are still delightful, you may choose floral pomanders for very young girls, or mini bouquets for older attendants. Perhaps your florist will add to the girls’ ensembles by having floral hair wreaths created especially for them.

While flower girls might not require fittings and alterations, be wary of ordering their gowns too early. Remember, they are still growing! The parents of the little ones should be able to give you a good idea of how much “extra room” to allow in sizing.

Gowns Available at:
Alfred Angelo