The Budget-Savvy Bride…Part II

April 30, 2019 in St. Pucchi News, Sample Sale, Wedding guide, Wedding Planning, Wedding Trends

image-bridal sketch 4-shutterstock_137296133.jpg

In our previous post, The Budget-Savvy Bride…Part I: http://stpucchi.com/blog-1/2019/4/2/the-budget-savvy-bridepart-i we delved into Online Purchases and what to look out for.

Today we will talk about Samples and Clearance Sales:

Most bridal salons and designer websites have sample and clearance sales to make room for new merchandise as well as to get rid of discontinued styles due to lack of space and changing demands. This is your chance to purchase a fabulous gown sans the hefty price.

Since wedding dresses are sized differently compared to ready-to-wear clothing, make sure you know where you are on the size chart prior to purchasing your sale gown, as most sales are final.

In most cases, though, the store may not have the size or the color you need. Floor samples in stores are usually smaller in size and have been tried on by several brides-to-be, so expect some wear and tear.

A sale is only good if you are flexible and willing to settle for whatever you can get. Most stores do not disclose which styles and sizes they will be offering for sale. Also, don’t expect to find the current year and season’s models, as they would not be among the sale items.

Call the stores where you found some styles you liked to see if and when they will be having their sale. Plan in advance so you don’t get caught up in the mayhem, as it can get quite chaotic as other brides are also there searching for their dream gown at a bargain price. Some stores require an appointment, so do your homework.

Here are ten steps you can take to pick the right dress with minimum hassle:

1. Visit the bridal salons in advance to find out what choices are being offered. Try on several dresses and shortlist a few that you love.

2. Note the dress model numbers and sizes so that you reach them first on the day of the sale.

3. Get your friends to pitch in and help to scout out the potential gowns faster by showing them pictures of styles you are looking for.

4. Dressing rooms can be rushed and chaotic during sales, so don’t expect to spend too much time trying on one gown after another.

5. Be ready to make a quick decision and get ready to make your purchase there and then.

6. Expect that this is a final sale.

7. In the event that the dress is not in your size, ask the store if they offer alterations and the costs involved.

8. Make an appointment to bring the dress back for alterations and fittings.

9. If your sample gown is soiled from dirt and sweat from having been tried on, then you may need to get it cleaned. Ask the store for their recommendations.

10. Factor in alteration and cleaning costs and make sure you are within your budget.

Unfortunately, if you have only a single style in mind, then your chances are not so good and a sale is not the answer to finding the dress of your dreams.

*Above is an excerpt from the #1 International Bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Below are a few of styles offered exclusively via our website www.stpucchi.com. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to style@stpucchi.com and our expert stylist will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For help and guidance with your wedding planning needs, pick up the #1 International Bestseller, written by award-winning designer Rani St. Pucchi based on her 30+ years in the Bridal industry and from having worked with more than 20,000+ brides: Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning couture Bridal Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk:Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books:Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams; and her newly released Gold in the Cracks: Move from Shattered to Whole and Reveal Your Light — are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani visit ranistpucchi.com

The Budget-Savvy Bride…Part I

April 02, 2019 in Wedding guide, Wedding Trends, Wedding Planning, Sample Sale, St. Pucchi News

Maybe the thought of spending more than two months’pay on a wedding dress never even occurred to you when you accepted the ring.

Just a few short years ago, finding a beautiful and elegant wedding dress would have required an all-hands-on-deck manhunt and a considerable amount of spare time and some change. Not so today. And seeing that time and money are very precious commodities, luxuries not everyone can afford, there are quite a few options for you to consider when looking for an incredibly memorable wedding dress.

Whether you’re looking for an unfussy gown for your beach wedding, trying to find a lace-adorned midi dress to wear to City Hall, or you’re going all out but still want something spectacular, there are so many options for you today to realize your dream.

In this first part of the series we will explore one of the three options that are available to you…

ONLINE PURCHASE:

Like the rest of the fashion industry, the bridal world, too, is experiencing change. Many reputable designers have adopted the digital trend and are now offering their designs online.

Can you really get a wedding gown delivered to your doorstep? Yes, absolutely.

For many brides, the ability to purchase designer gowns in this most effortless way is a dream come true. Often the prices offered online are considerably lower than the dresses sold in stores due to lower overhead costs to designers, which affords savings to you, the bride.

One thing to bear in mind is that some online bridal stores offer a try-on option, while others do not. If it is a brand that you are familiar with and which has a good reputation, then there should be no need to worry. Do your homework and check the seller’s policies and procedures.

Today, an ocean of choices has become available online, which can often overwhelm and cause confusion.

Here are ten steps you can take to make your choice easier:

1. Make a list of the features you wish for in a dress that would look good on your body type such as silhouette, neckline, sleeves, and fabric. Also list what you would like to avoid (I have laid this out clearly in my book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams. Read Chapter 5: Lines That Flatter: Choosing a Style for Your Figure, and Chapter 6: Wedding Dress Silhouettes).

2. Filter by price to make sure you’re staying within your dress budget.

3. Pick out a number of gowns that fit the aforementioned criteria.

4. Pin these on your online inspiration board or print them out so you can lay them all out and compare them.

5. Eliminate the dresses that do not match your needs.

6. Pay attention to details on the chosen dresses: note the fabric, construction, and how it drapes on the model.

7. Get help from those whose opinion you trust and make your decision.

8. Check the manufacturer’s measurement chart and determine the optimal size.

9. Place your order.

10. Find a good seamstress who has experience working with complicated gowns. Once your dress arrives, you will more than likely need some alterations.

Here are just a few of the dresses from our St. Pucchi Collections made available directly from our design house to you, the bride, at a fraction of the cost…Visit www.stpucchi.com for all available styles.

Unfortunately, in this day and age, the Internet is flooded with websites selling cheap imitations and fake goods, some even bold enough to use other designers’ original images to lure you into believing that you are, in fact, receiving an authentic designer dress. So, beware of some sites that offer bargain dresses. Sometimes a cheap dress can just end up being a headache and cost more than you bargained for.

It is best to order directly from a designer’s website than from third-party vendors or those who pose as representatives. When a designer puts their name on a piece, it is a symbol of pride, and they are putting their reputation on the line.

Investing in a reputable designer’s piece ensures that you are receiving a well-made garment of the best quality, an heirloom that you can pass on to generations.

*Above is an excerpt from the #1 International Bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

For more information on Rani visit ranistpucchi.com

Your Diamond…Your Personality…

December 28, 2018 in Real Brides, St. Pucchi News, Wedding guide, Wedding Planning, Wedding Trends

Chances are you said “YES” to the love of your life during these holidays…

If so, Congratulations!

Laughing, crying, grinning till your cheeks are sore, you’ve become that wonderful cliché: The Happiest Woman in the World.

If you were involved in deciding which type of ring you received, then you know the process was somewhat agonizing, yes? After all, a diamond is very personal and very precious.

Besides, your diamond is the longest style commitment you will ever make.

Did you know that each one of the seven most common diamond cuts reflects your personality?

So, what does your diamond say about you?

Here are a few as shared from award-winning designer Rani St. Pucchi’s #1 International Bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Oval: One of the most popular diamond shapes and great for the bride who loves an elegant yet classic aesthetic.

Round: For the woman who wants a traditional look that will be timeless and classic and maximum sparkle, this is the diamond for you.

Marquise: For the bride who knows her mind and moves to the beat of her own drum, who wishes to create the illusion of elegant, long hands, this pear-shaped diamond is perfect.

Emerald: For the discerning bride who wishes to exude elegance and refinement, somewhat understated yet classic with an edge, the elongated shape and step-cut faceting of this diamond is perfect.

Want to learn about other diamond cuts? Pick up a copy of Rani’s #1 International Bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

For direct assistance and guidance from Rani St. Pucchi - for help in matching your vision to the wedding of your dreams forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

From picking a wedding date to planning your dream wedding, to divvying up your budget and sidestepping sticky social situation Rani St. Pucchi has you covered as she shares her expertise about all your wedding planning needs and more in Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning couture Bridal Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams; and her newly released Gold in the Cracks: Move from Shattered to Whole and Reveal Your Light – are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

Before You Go Dress Shopping…know these 10 most commonly used terms

December 09, 2018 in Real Brides, Wedding Planning, Wedding guide, St. Pucchi News

Let’s face it. Wedding dress shopping is not just another trip to a department store where you can pick a dress and take it home.

Shopping for a wedding dress is a full-on endeavor, an expedition, and a mission that will stay in your memory long after the day is over.

So, it’s a good idea to be well equipped and get your facts straight before you begin the search. For example, what is the difference between Guipure lace and Alençon lace?

How about a bustle and a modesty piece?

Aside from obvious silhouettes such as A-line, sheath, column, ballgown—some details can make any bride seriously confused and frustrated.

If you would like to be well-versed, and have some answers at your fingertips, here are ten most commonly used terms to know ahead of your biggest shopping trip.

1. Alençon lace: Originally produced by hand in Alençon, a town in Normandy, France, it is a light, airy needle lace made of linen thread. This is one of the most popular and traditional laces used on wedding dresses.

2. Boning: Plastic or metal sewn into the bodice of the dress, especially a corset on a strapless wedding gown, to ensure the fit is snug and the fabric does not droop.

3. Bustle: The art of pinning a train and securing it by using hidden hooks on the back of the dress so it does not drag around on the ground after the ceremony. There are several different ways to bustle. The French bustle is the most popular, whereby the train is tucked underneath and pinned or hooked to the fabric of the dress.

4. Chantilly lace: Delicate lace that originates from the city of Chantilly in France. This is one of the more popular laces used on wedding dresses. It comes in small, detailed patterns and look best when worn sheer over the arms, back, and neckline.

5. Court: Refers to a type of train that is short—generally three feet from the waist—and drags a few inches on the ground.

6. Crêpe: Thin, soft fabric with a slightly wrinkled surface, ideally used on a draped wedding gown or one that is form-fitting and clings to the body. Great for a beach wedding.

7. Dropped waist: A longer bodice attached to the skirt at the seam that falls below the natural waistline. Gives an illusion of a longer torso and looks best on taller women.

8. Guipure lace: French bobbin lace, used on the bodice, skirt, or train of a wedding dress. It is heavier than Chantilly lace.

9. Mermaid: One of the more popular skirt styles, where the bodice is fitted and then flares from under the hips in a mermaid-tail fashion.

10. Modesty piece: A piece of fabric that is sewn into the middle of the neckline, especially a V-neck, to make it less revealing.

Armed with this basic terminology you are now ready…

Shall we go shopping?

*Above is an excerpt from designer Rani St. Pucchi’s #1 International Bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Want to learn more about planning the wedding of your dreams? From picking a wedding date, to what silhouette would flatter your body most, to divvying up your budget and sidestepping sticky social situations, Rani St. Pucchi has you covered as she shares her more than 3 decades of expertise about all these and more in her #1 International Bestselling book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

For direct assistance and guidance from Rani St. Pucchi - for help in matching your vision to the wedding of your dreams forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams; and her newly released Gold in the Cracks: Move from Shattered to Whole and Reveal Your Light – are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

Your Wedding Planning Timeline - Part V

November 24, 2018 in Real Brides, Wedding guide, Wedding Planning, Wedding Trends, St. Pucchi News

Continued…

It’s time to put the final finishing touches to your plans.

While some things could go wrong on your wedding day, remember your attitude matters. Laughter, not tears, will make your day that much more memorable and unique.

Here is your final checklist that will take you to a smooth and well-planned day void of any last minute hiccups!

Mila Collection by St. Pucchi - style 702 and 703

ONE TO TWO MONTHS AHEAD:

___Mail the invitations

___Create hotel information cards

___Plan the rehearsal

___Send rehearsal dinner invitations

___Purchase wedding favors and attendants’ gifts

___Purchase a gift for your fiancé

___Buy guest book

___Have legal and other requirements in place

___Have your hair and makeup trial

___Finalize details with the photographer and videographer

___Confirm floral order

___Arrange for the getaway car

___Finalize all deliveries

___ Confirm delivery and pick-up times for all attendants’ attire.

___Make delivery arrangements for your wedding cake.

___Choose/write your wedding vows

___Finalize the details of your ceremony with your officiant

___Meet with ushers and assign them duties.

___Secure a dressing room for your bridesmaids for your wedding day.

___Finalize your honeymoon plans and confirm all reservations.

___Arrange for transportation to and from the airport (if flying) or car to your honeymoon destination.

___Write thank-you notes: It is best to do this as you receive or open your gifts.

ONE TO TWO WEEKS AHEAD:

___Have your final dress fitting.

___Arrange for pickup of the bridal ensemble.

___Update the registry.

___Research gown preservation companies

___Coordinate final fittings for the groom, groomsmen, and ushers

___Go in for a dry run with a professional makeup artist and schedule your day-of-the-wedding appointment.

___Schedule a manicure/pedicure for the day before your wedding.

___Pick up your marriage license.

___Finalize and memorize your wedding vows.

___Write toasts for the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception.

___Finalize arrangements with your catering manager and liquor representative, if needed.

___Submit a final shot list to your photographer and discuss positioning with your videographer.

___Send your final playlist to your DJ or band.

___Arrange for preparation, storage, and break areas for the musicians/DJ at the reception venue.

___Review RSVPs and contact guests who have yet to reply to your invitation.

___Finalize the list of reception guests.

___Confirm the final headcount with your caterer and review details, preferably in writing.

___Finalize the seating chart.

___Arrange for table cards to be set up at the reception venue.

___Determine the placement of programs at the ceremony venue.

___Give last-minute requests to the vendors.

___Prepare the fee or donation for the officiant and tips for the vendors in labeled envelopes

___Confirm your honeymoon travel arrangements.

___Start packing for your honeymoon.

___Pick up your wedding dress (if you haven’t already).

___Break in the wedding shoes at home

___Prepare announcements to be mailed immediately after the wedding.

___Designate someone to look after your home while you are on your honeymoon.

___Find out where guests will be staying

Avine Perucci - style 506 with matching veil

THE DAY BEFORE:

___Finish packing for the wedding night and the honeymoon.

___Reconfirm transportation arrangements for the ceremony and reception.

___Do last-minute primping

___Rehearse the ceremony and attend the rehearsal dinner.

___Give gifts to the bridal party

ON THE DAY:

___Give wedding rings to the best man and maid or matron of honor to hold.

___See hairdresser and makeup artist: Beautify.

___Remember important items

___Load your luggage

___Give yourself plenty of time to get ready

___Bride should transfer her engagement ring to her right hand.

Relax and enjoy yourself!

Above are bullet points taken from the bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

For more details and in-depth tasks pick up your copy here: goo.gl/FDNwbF

Watch the book trailer here: https://youtu.be/FEsuefkzIRs

And visit www.stpucchi.com for St. Pucchi couture collections to find your dream dress!

Due to the many differences between weddings, you may find some of the reminders listed don’t really apply to you. Or, perhaps a few particular details that are part of your special plans are excluded from this list. Modify the checklist as you go along until you’re satisfied it’s tailored to your needs.

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Bridal Fashion Designer, Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, an Inspirational Speaker, and a Success Coach and Trainer. Her TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back? has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s#1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type ; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams; and Gold in the Cracks: Move from Shattered to Whole and Reveal Your Light are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

Your Wedding Planning Timeline - Part 1

October 25, 2018 in Real Brides, St. Pucchi News, Wedding guide, Wedding Planning, Wedding Trends, Sample Sale

No secret here: Planning a wedding is intense.

There are so many crucial things to be done and decisions to be made immediately after you’re engaged and once you have your wedding date. Worse still, if you happen to be a perfectionist, the stress level alone can soar off the charts! You soon realize how long your to-do list is, from shopping for your wedding dress and accessories to setting up the guest list, planning the wedding theme, and finding the venue.

Very soon, you may find your own ideas slipping through the cracks as your well-meaning friends and relatives step in to “help” with their advice and recommendations. Isn’t it amazing how everyone wants to weigh in? Too many voices can cloud your vision. Eventually, it can take all the fun out of your wedding.

Take heart. You can manage it all. Yes, you can!

There are hundreds of truths you know about yourself, so start by writing down everything that you love, everything that gives you joy. Close your eyes, and what do you see?

What are your favorite colors, hues that you love?

Your favorite foods?

Flowers?

How about your favorite venue?

Do you see a castle with crystal chandeliers and red roses?

Do you see yourself in nature and dancing under the stars with your sweetheart?

Perhaps at the beach?

Listen to what your heart is saying, trust it, and know that it will not steer you wrong.

As the process unfolds and you have all your ideas, plans, and inspirations on paper, you will find that you feel calm, collected, and confident.

Now you know what you want and can start researching venues and vendors and planning your timelines.

Now you can split the tasks—those you will personally handle and those you will delegate—and assign dates to each one of them during the various stages of wedding planning.

Now you are better equipped to see the process through with great success and pride.

Have fun as you go on this journey so that you are not scattered and stressed out.

With all that you will be doing, make sure to pause and take care of yourself. Wedding planning is important, yes, but what is more important is to occasionally stop whatever you’re doing, smile, dance, laugh, and spend quality time with your fiancé.

Never allow the process to make you lose sight of the reason you’re doing this, nor the strength and depth of your love for each other. After all, you are creating memories. Make them good ones!”

**Above is an excerpt from designer Rani St. Pucchi’s bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams

Watch the book trailer here: https://youtu.be/FEsuefkzIRs

And visit www.stpucchi.com for our couture collections to find your dream dress!

In the following weeks we will break down the tasks that need to be accomplished as you plan ahead for your most important day:

a. 9-18 months prior

b. 5-9 months prior

c. 1-2 months prior

d. Final weeks and days

Due to the many differences between weddings, you may find some of the reminders listed don’t really apply to you. Or perhaps a few particular details that are part of your special plans are excluded from this list. Modify the checklist as you go along until you’re satisfied it’s tailored to your needs.

Until next week…

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

Prepare For A Wedding That Reflects Your Inner Beauty

October 08, 2018 in Real Brides, Wedding Trends, St. Pucchi News, Wedding guide

One of the foremost concerns on the mind of most brides as they prepare for their wedding are questions such as:

What do others expect of me?

How will I come across to my family and friends?

What will they say?

I find that a little sad, seeing that it is YOUR day.

What about YOUR dreams?

I’m sure you’ve waited for this day with anticipation and excitement. Should you not share with others what it is that you want? Involve your near and dear ones, those you’re closest to and who understand and support you, so that they share in your excitement and help you realize your vision for your day.

What is it that you would like?

Where would you like to get married?

Who would you like to invite?

What would you like to wear?

What décor, colors, music, …. have you envisioned for your day?

What exactly does YOUR heart desire?

If you’re like most brides you can get swayed by others’ opinions and get caught up trying to please everyone. More often than not this leads to some resentment after the fact, perhaps even leaving you with feelings of regret that you didn't go with what you had envisioned, what you always longed for, what would make you happy..

Planning a wedding should be fun!

Don't let anyone steal you of your moment, of the joy that is rightfully yours.

Bask in your love and love your journey.

In the next series of blogs I will share with you the different aspects of your wedding and the choices you have so you may pick what resonates most with you, and meets your heart’s greatest longing for your special day as you prepare to walk down the aisle to say “I Do”

After all, the walk down the aisle is the moment of a lifetime - a moment to be treasured forever.

For a complete guide to planning your wedding, pick up the international bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams.

Here’s the link: goo.gl/FDNwbF

Watch the book trailer here: https://youtu.be/FEsuefkzIRs

And visit www.stpucchi.com for our couture collections to find your dream dress!

Until next week…

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com